Commentary: Today, The Doña Ana County Democratic Delegation of the House of Representativesreleased the following statement regarding Friday’s anti-gay student attack that occurred at Zia Middle School:
“The anti-gay attack that unfolded Friday at Zia Middle School runs contrary to our values as New Mexicans. LGBTQ students like Savannah deserve a safe and welcoming place where they can learn in peace and live as their authentic selves. We honor Savannah’s courage and bravery. As your Representatives, we stand against bigotry and violence in all forms. We stand with Savannah.”
The Doña Ana County Democratic Delegation includes Representatives Doreen Y. Gallegos, Angelica Rubio, Nathan Small, Joanne Ferrary, Willie Madrid, Raymundo “Ray” Lara, Micaela Lara Cadena, and Rodolpho “Rudy” Martinez.
Representative Micaela Lara Cadena (D-Mesilla), whose district includes Zia Middle School, released the following statement:
"I am heartbroken to hear the news out of Zia Middle School, where a student was bullied and attacked on the basis of being LGBTQ. Every student deserves to feel safe and welcome at their place of learning and across our communities. I am especially outraged with adults on social media that have been part of instigating this ugliness. Savannah is brave for making the decision to live her life out loud and on her own terms. We can and must do more to protect our young people from discrimination and targeted violence, in schools and wherever they may be. As a mama and New Mexican, I am ready to walk next to Savannah and her family as we create the loving world all our kids deserve.”
Rep. Cadena had the opportunity to speak with Savannah’s mother, listening to their story and concerns, and committing to creating a better future for our kids.