Supporting LGBTQ+ Communities: Standing Against Hate in San Jose The San Jose City Council recently made a unanimous declaration of support for the transgender and broader LGBTQ+ communities in response to a surge of hateful remarks from a conservative parents group, Informed Parents of Silicon Valley. This resolution, authored by Councilmembers Pam Foley and Omar Torres, aims to address the harmful actions and misinformation spread by this group, which has targeted local school districts with brochures advocating for parents to opt their children out of sex education classes that include LGBTQ+ supportive curriculum and ban LGBTQ+ themed books in school libraries. During the council meeting, Foley highlighted the misinformation and hateful rhetoric used by Informed Parents of Silicon Valley, stating, “I cannot stand by silently while members of our community are marginalized and attacked.” Torres, who is gay, emotionally expressed the pain caused by living in fear and the need to send a clear message that the LGBTQ+ community will not be silenced or forced back into the closet. Both Foley and Torres revealed that they received death threats for standing up for LGBTQ+ rights. In response to the council’s resolution, Informed Parents of Silicon Valley argued that parents have the right to opt their children out of public school curriculum based on the California education code. They claimed that excluding these parents is an assault on the First Amendment. However, the resolution simply asks elected officials to condemn anti-LGBTQ+ activities in local schools and affirm support for LGBTQ+ communities. It emphasizes the importance of creating safe and supportive environments in schools, as studies have shown that supportive schools and communities reduce the likelihood of LGBTQ+ youth attempting suicide. The resolution passed by the San Jose City Council is one of several recent steps taken to support LGBTQ+ rights in the area. In August, the Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors passed a resolution in support of gender-affirming care countywide. Additionally, the San Jose Unified School District unanimously passed a pride resolution in the same month. The actions of Informed Parents of Silicon Valley have been met with strong opposition from community members and religious organizations alike. Todd Davidson, a member of Stone Church of Willow Glen, denounced the group’s divisive mission and highlighted the need to reject any form of discrimination or exclusion. As personal injury bloggers, we believe in upholding the rights and dignity of all individuals, including those in the LGBTQ+ community. It is disheartening to witness hate and misinformation being spread, especially when it targets marginalized communities. We stand with the San Jose City Council in their commitment to support and protect LGBTQ+ individuals and create inclusive environments where everyone can live authentically and without fear. Let us remember that love, acceptance, and understanding are the foundations of a harmonious society. By challenging discrimination and promoting empathy, we can ensure that everyone feels safe, respected, and valued. Together, we can build a community where diversity is celebrated and hate has no place.