The last few weeks have been tragic for those teens across the country who have lost their lives to suicide. Teens like Tyler Clementi, Billy Lucas and Ashler Brown took their lives because they were bullied about their sexual orientation. Our hearts go out to their families and to anyone faced with bullying because of who they are.
You may not know that youth who identify as gay or lesbian are four times more likely to commit suicide then those that identify as heterosexual. We have to ensure that all of our children are treated with respect, love and support.
Let’s all talk to our youth and children, and please, if you know a teen who needs help, refer him or her to the Trevor Project lifeline, a national hotline for youth contemplating suicide, at (866) 488-7386.
Let’s work together to make our city and world a safer place for everyone.
Go, Long Beach!
Robert Garcia
Long Beach Councilmember
First District
