Cheyenne Williams Attacked by Classmates Because She's a Lesbian, Parents ClaimThe Student Non-Discrimination Act of 2010 (H.R. 4530) would prohibit discrimination against public school students on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity.
April 23, 2010 6:32 AM
Posted by Carlin DeGuerin Miller
MCKEE, Ky. (CBS/AP) Cheyenne Williams says three of her classmates kidnapped her and took her to Flat Lick Falls, a remote area 60 miles south of Lexington, Ky., where they beat her and tried to push her off a cliff - and she says they did it because she is gay.
The incident happened on April 16, a national "Day of Silence" intended to raise awareness about bullying and harassment due to sexual orientation. Williams' mother believes that is what was at the root of the attack.
According to the criminal complaint, filed by Williams on Monday, the three suspects took Williams against her will to Flat Lick Falls were they allegedly attacked her at the falls and tried to push her off a 50-foot cliff, state police said. Williams then brandished a stick at the girls and was able to get away.
The three have been charged with attempted murder, however, the Student Non-Discrimination Act tries to prevent violence from happening. The act is modeled after Title IX.
“Hatred has no place in the classroom,” said Congressman Polis. “Every student has the right to an education free from harassment and violence. This bill will protect the individual freedoms of our students and enshrine the values of equality and opportunity in our classrooms.”
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