CONGRESSMAN Jared Polis 2nd DISTRICT OF COLORADO

Washington, Oct 26 - Today, Representatives Jared Polis (D-CO), Jerrold Nadler (D-NY), Barney Frank (D-MA) and Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) leaders of the House LGBT Equality Caucus, formally requested assistance from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to stem the occurrence of suicides among LGBT youth.  In response to recent highly publicized suicides across the nation, the Members sent a letter to Pamela S. Hyde, Administrator of HHS’ Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) urging immediate action by SAMHSA to better protect LGBT youth and prevent further tragedies.

“Every day LGBT students face harassment and bullying while they attend school,” said Rep. Polis.  “Studies have shown this intimidation not only affects their education but also their mental health.  It is important that we use the expertise and resources we have at the federal government to address this disturbing and growing problem.  No one should be denied access to a public education, and no one should be made to feel inferior for simply being who they are.”

“The recent high-profile cases of LGBT suicide have been truly alarming and disturbing,” said Rep. Nadler.  “Nationally, as American society is gradually becoming more supportive of the LGBT community and increasingly educated about its issues, the federal government must set a strong example in forward-thinking leadership and policy.  SAMHSA needs to act now and do more to save young lives.”

“I join my colleagues in issuing this urgent call to action to save lives and protect LGBT youth,” said Rep. Baldwin.  “The federal government must lead the way in preventing bullying, hostility, and violence against all young people and in giving LGBT youth the protections and support they need to grow and thrive.”

The letter follows and is attached as a pdf.