Wednesday, June 11, 2025
“Hey—can you write something for Pride Month? Maybe a short article? Something uplifting…”
Every June, like clockwork, the requests roll in. Pride Month is here, and with it comes the well-meaning ask for a story—preferably a happy one. Pride, after all, is a joyful word. It evokes celebration, resilience, and the quiet confidence of a life hard-won. People want stories of queer joy, of individuals who’ve overcome adversity and found their light. And so we reflect, searching for those moments of hope that shine through.
As we share these stories, we also recognize the broader landscape that many LGBTQ+ youth are navigating — where feeling safe, supported, and truly seen can’t be taken for granted. For those young people, Pride is more than a celebration; it’s a lifeline. It’s a reminder that their experiences matter and that they belong.
Last week, the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction proudly joined Governor Tony Evers in raising the Pride Flag atop the Wisconsin State Capitol Building — a symbol of our ongoing commitment to welcoming and affirming all students. Pride Month reminds us that every child deserves to feel safe and respected, be seen, and supported for who they are. Recent and historic Wisconsin Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS) data continues to show the importance of this work. LGBTQ+ students continue to experience higher rates of bullying, mental health challenges, and barriers to belonging than other students.
Schools and libraries play a critical role in community and sense of belonging. They are places where students, families, and educators come together every day — not just to teach and learn, but to be their best selves. When we create spaces where everyone is welcomed and supported, all students can see themselves reflected and respected. The DPI has stood up and spoken out against efforts that sought to make it more difficult for students and educators to show up as their full selves.
Because here’s the truth: creating a more caring world isn’t just about saying no to things that cause harm — it’s about saying yes to each other. Yes to connection. Yes to supporting one another. Yes to belonging. Yes to dignity. Yes to a future where every student knows that who they are is not just accepted, but truly valued. Who knows, each of us could create a new story of joy for an LGBTQ student. We could be the one.
Visit our DPI Supporting LGBTQ+ Students webpage for resources, data highlights, and guidance to help strengthen your school or district’s efforts to build supportive and inclusive learning environments.