Fairbanks School Board bravely acts to protect all its students

Kudos to the Fairbanks North Star Borough School Board who voted on Feb. 17, 2009 to add gender identity to the school district's anti-discrimination and anti-harassment policies.

Students questioning their gender identity (for example, the gender they feel in their heart they should express differs from the gender assigned at birth) are the most vulnerable group of students to discrimination, harassment, violence, dropping out and even suicide. Still many folks do not believe these students require specific protection.

We are glad that the Fairbanks school board took this proactive step to protect all of our students! This brave action sets a good example for schools, governments, and organizations across Alaska on how to protect and show basic respect for the most misunderstood group of students and members of our community.