LGBTQ students can stay safe online by understanding how to deal with the aftermath of cyberbullying and harassment, before the problem escalates into something more.

For a growing number of LGBTQ+ students, the internet is an invaluable lifeline. However, it also exposes them to malicious actors.

Most people know that there are laws that make it illegal for malicious actors to violate the rights of another person because of their sex, sexual identity, gender identity or gender expression. However, LGBTQ+ persons may feel intimidated to exercise their rights after a cyberattack.

By seeking the support of others, LGBTQ+ students can find encouragement to do what they must when others infringe upon their rights.

How LGBTQ+ Students Can Deal With Cyberbullying

20% of surveyed LGBTQ+ college students expressed that others have harassed them while on campus. Today, the internet makes it easier than ever for harassers to engage victims. There are, however, steps that students can take to deal with harassment.x

For example, there's safety in numbers. As of 2011, all schools must allow students to form a Gay-Straight Alliance (GSA) clubs.

Also, a better understanding of the law can inform LGBTQ+ students about what actions to take when malicious actors violate their civil rights. Students can learn more about LGBTQ+ law at StopBullying.gov.

A survey conducted by the Human Rights Campaign reveals that 70% of LGBTQ+ persons have experienced unwanted harassment. The path toward diversity and inclusion isn't passive. There are several ways that you can work toward promoting a fairer society.

For instance, educators can find resources to learn how to create safe spaces for LGBTQ+ on the Higher Education Today website. Also, the National LGBTQ+ Task Force connects like-minded individuals who want to promote acceptance and inclusion for LGBTQ+ persons. Finally, PFLAG serves as a national networking resource for LGBTQ+ advocates.

Addressing the Issue

When an LGBTQ+ student is a victim of cyberbullying, the best thing that a teacher or parent can do is offer their support. After a traumatic incident, the affected individual will most likely need someone to listen.

After allowing the student to vent, you can then find out what that individual's needs are moving forward. As for parents, the most important thing that they can offer when their children are attacked online – or off-line – is love, respect and support.

Humanity is still evolving. In some instances, parents or educators may not readily accept the lifestyle of an LGBTQ+ person. Nevertheless, they can still offer their support.

Even if an LGBTQ+ student knows that you don't approve of their lifestyle, they will still greatly appreciate your sincere empathy after a traumatizing cyberbullying attack. When listening, however, it's essential to set aside personal opinions and judgments. Instead, focus on meeting the need of the affected individual, rather than imposing your own beliefs on them.

Students can also check with their school and municipal authorities to find out about local laws regarding LGBTQ+ rights. Additionally, most websites maintain specific terms of service that prohibit acts of hate directed toward any users.

Using one or a combination of several resources, LGBTQ+ students can learn from, support and – most importantly – protect each other.

It Takes More Than Talk

It takes a communal effort to uphold rights for LGBTQ+ students. Parents don't have to bear the work of promoting a fair and safe environment for LGBTQ+ students alone. Students can also work toward promoting a safe environment for all.

A Gay-Straight Alliance club is the most straightforward way that students can promote an inclusive environment for all. According to GSA officials, the groups are student-run organizations where people rally together to promote a sense of community and work on issues that affect the quality of life for everyone.

GSAs enable students to connect with like-minded individuals who are compelled to rally together and advocate for LGBTQ+ inclusion and rights. So far, express GSA officials, the clubs have produced positive results for student health, wellness and academic outcomes.

Students can learn more about Gay-Straight Alliance clubs at GSANetwork.org.

School should serve as a center for learning, growth and a foundation for life for all students. Every student faces challenges in high school. However, LGBTQ+ students face additional challenges in the form of abuse, harassment and violence.

GSA clubs are a great place to start the conversation about why it's important to rally together to support the cause of LGBTQ+ equality. The groups are a safe, confidential outlet.

GSA spokespersons urge group participants not to make assumptions or judgments about any member's sexual orientation. This way, all students – gay or straight – can work together in a comfortable environment to improve the quality of life for all students.