Gay Student’s Slaying in California Sparks Outcry, Demands for Better Tolerance
(International Herald Tribune, March 28, 2008) The article "Gay student's slaying in California sparks outcry, demands for better tolerance programs," tells the story of fifteen-year-old Lawrence King, who was shot by another student on February 12, 2008 in Oxnard. Students report that he was taunted for being gay. "The tragic death of Larry King is a wake-up call for our schools to better protect students from harassment at school," said Carolyn Laub, executive director of the Gay-Straight Alliance Network. The video "Palo Alto High Students Respond to Larry King Shooting," presents students' reactions to Lawrence King's death and their suggestions for how the school community should respond to hate crimes.
In Gunn High School, Mr. Habib, a Facing History teacher, has a discussion with his class about how to respond when someone says, "That's so gay," in the video "Not In Our School - What Do You Say to "That's so gay"?"
Films from Our Library:
Speak-Up!: Improving the Lives of Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgendered Youth
- Who in the school is responsible for responding to homophobia and bullying?
- How does homophobia play out in your school? Where does it come from?
- What factors encourage bullying and prejudice? What factors discourage bullying and prejudice?
- What are some strategies that students can use if they are being harassed in school?
- What are some ways in which schools can promote tolerance and prevent hate crimes in their community?
