Rally held at capitol to support LGBTQ inclusion in Utah schools

SALT LAKE CITY (KUTV) — A rally was held on the steps of the State Capitol, to support LGBTQ inclusion in Utah schools.

The rally was organized by Utah FAM Wednesday to provide a chance for Utahns to celebrate LGBTQ identities in schools.

“I'm just really happy to be here because I love this community with my whole heart,” said 10th grader Bryan Murphy.

Murphy has experienced tough situations at school adding, “I've been harassed a lot in my past so it's hard to try and find a safe place.”

Rally speakers talked about the ongoing political attacks on their rights and the work being done to depoliticize Utah schools and make them a safe space.

“My friends, we all go to the same school so school and home that's my safe space,” said 9th grade student Kai Bard.

Speakers also specifically cited the Utah constitution that says the state should have an educational system that is "open to all."

“We are here and, like, we exist and we deserve the same rights as anyone else,” said 9th grader Dylan Rizika.

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Bree Taylor-Loft is a 5th grade teacher in the Salt Lake City School District and has been looking forward to this rally for a long time.

“It's such a great opportunity to come together to celebrate our LGBTQ youth and educators and give them a little boost of positivity and love,” Bree said.

Bree, whose pronouns are they/them, teaches their students to be proud of who they are.

“It's my greatest pride being a queer teacher and to be there as a role model and a support to my students," Bree said.

The rally came just days after a teacher at a Lehi charter school grabbed headlines and lost her job for a video where she said her classroom is a safe place for LGBTQ youth.

Bree was upset that teacher went through the investigative process and mutually agreed with the school board to resign.

“I was terrified for the safety and wellbeing of other queer teachers in our state if that becomes a kind-of precedent or trend” Bree said.

RELATED: Utah State Board of Education abandons guidelines for gender pronouns