Oregon: Giant Pride sign sends a message to school district
NBC reported August 20 on the giant Pride sign Oregon residents built in response to the Newburg Public Schools' decision to ban such symbols from its campuses. The sign stands on a hilltop, visible from one of the Newburg campuses, and its construction was funded and performed by members of the community. The ban's advocates say it will prevent division, anger, and other conflicts over politics on campus. The ban's critics say the symbols aren't political at all, and can provide well-needed comfort for LGBTQ students.

Washington, DC: Biden administration tells Trans students they're not alone
NBC reported August 19 on the Biden administration's message to trans students returning to school this fall. The message was delivered by allies and "nation firsts" in government: Acting Assistant Secretary of Education for Civil Rights Suzanne Goldberg, a Lesbian; Assistant Secretary General Kristen Clark, the first woman to lead the Civil Rights Division of the Justice Department; and Dr. Rachel Levine, the first openly Trans official to serve in a presidential administration. They all stated the federal government's "unequivocal" support of Transgender students, promising to continue fighting the wave of anti-Trans state bills.