From the office of Board Member Karla Griego, District 5
LOS ANGELES (June 12, 2026) – In a unanimous decision, the Los Angeles Unified Board of Education reaffirms their commitment to ensuring that the LGBTQIA+ community feels safe, heard and respected by supporting Board Member Karla Griego’s resolution, Celebrating Pride 2026: A Review of LGBTQ+ Supports, Resources, and Programming for Students, Educators, and Families. The resolution also celebrates the diversity of our students, staff and families, and recognizes the achievements of LGBTQIA+ people.
“Celebrating Pride Month is about creating inclusive environments where every student feels empowered to be their true self and reach their full potential,” said Board Member Karla Griego. “By ensuring that our schools provide strong academic resources and comprehensive wellness supports, we can commit to serving ALL students, including our LGBTQIA+ youth, educators and families.”
“Los Angeles Unified is committed to creating inclusive, affirming spaces where every student feels seen, respected, and valued,” said Acting Superintendent Andrés E. Chait “Our ongoing efforts to expand supports, resources, and programming reflect our belief that diversity is a strength and that creating inclusive, welcoming environments is essential to every student’s success. We are proud to stand with our students, families, and educators in building school communities where everyone can belong and thrive.”
“It is crucial that all students feel welcome at our schools and are met with dignity and respect by all,” said Board President Scott M. Schmerelson. “The celebration and acknowledgment of Pride Month is not just another symbolic recognition. It is a necessary act so we can let all our LGBTQ+ students know that they belong here at LAUSD. It is telling our entire LGBTQ+ community that we see them, hear them, and stand by them. Happy Pride Month to all!”
"As we celebrate Pride Month, we also recommit ourselves to ensuring that LGBTQIA+ students, families, and staff have access to the resources, supports, and inclusive learning environments they need to thrive," said Board Vice President Dr. Rocío Rivas.
“As we celebrate Pride Month, we reaffirm LA Unified’s commitment to ensure schools that are welcoming, affirming, and safe for all and recognize the diversity and contributions of our LGBTQIA+ students, families, and staff,” said Board Member Sherlette Hendy Newbill.
“Pride Month is an opportunity to celebrate the many contributions of our LGBTQ+ students, families, educators, and staff, while reaffirming our commitment to creating schools where every young person feels safe, valued, and seen,” said Board Member Nick Melvoin. “These values represent a responsibility we carry throughout the year as we work to ensure every student has the opportunity to learn, grow, and belong.”
"Our schools are strongest when every student knows they belong. We continue to support and uplift our LGBTQ+ community, and we remain committed to fostering school communities where every young person can learn, grow, and be their authentic self,” said Board Member Kelly Gonez.
“As we celebrate Pride, I am proud to support this resolution to ensure we enhance our resources and support available to our LGBTQ+ community. Every student, parent, and staff deserves to feel safe, valued, and celebrated for who they are. By listening to our community and continuously improving our practices, we can ensure all students have the care, affirmation, LOVE and opportunities they need to thrive in LA Unified,” said Board Member Tanya Ortiz Franklin.
This resolution comes at a crucial time when rates of suicidal thoughts, stress and anxiety have trended upward for LGBTQIA+ youth.