Merced Youth Demand Changes to Sexual Harassment Policy at School

June 13, 2018 · Merced

Girls and Womyn of Color youth and staff advocated and facilitated for the passing of several policies that will create safer conditions for students and staff at Merced Union High School District. The school board adopted the following changes:

Youth will be represented on the School Board, either as appointed members or with voting rights by January 2019 to ensure that youth have a say in creating policies that protect them from sexual harassment, among other key issues.
Sexual harassment and assault reporting protocols will be updated.
Sexual assault and harassment prevention education for both students and staff will be added to the curriculum in all four years of high school.
A staff position will be created exclusively for handling reports of of sexual harassment and to support anyone affected.

I loved going to yli and seeing my friends and the staff. One of the memories that sticks out the most though is my first public speaking event. It was my first time talking about my experiences on how tobacco impacts my community’s health. I had to talk in front of the Board of Supervisors and my team. I felt so nervous going up there but I had the trust from my team! Thanks to people like Fahad, Alex, Catherine, Matt, and Patty I have overcome many of my fears of public speaking! Also shoutout to my brother for always being my number one and joining yli because of me!

Luisa Sicairos, Alumni