GLSEN Statement on the Education Portion of President Obama's Budget Proposal

NEW YORK (Feb. 2, 2015) – GLSEN Executive Director, Dr. Eliza Byard, today applauded key elements of President Obama's proposed budget, specifically noting increases in funding for equity and opportunity in education.

"We support President Obama's call for a budget increase of $2.7 billion in elementary and secondary education spending," said Dr. Byard, "as well as the proposed additional $1 billion to ensure equitable access to K-12 education for students from low-income families. The President's budget also rightly calls for $31 million more in support for the Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights (OCR), which actively protects students – including lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender youth – across the country from discrimination."

"Additional funding for OCR would ensure that those enforcing core civil rights protections in our nation's schools have the capacity and resources to do so. GLSEN urges Congress to support the President's education budget."

About GLSEN

GLSEN is the leading national education organization focused on ensuring safe and affirming schools for all students. Established in 1990, GLSEN envisions a world in which every child learns to respect and accept all people, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity/expression. GLSEN seeks to develop school climates where difference is valued for the positive contribution it makes to creating a more vibrant and diverse community. For information on GLSEN's research, educational resources, public policy advocacy, student organizing programs and educator training initiatives, visit www.glsen.org.