The outspoken and passionate former NCAA wrestler Hudson Taylor will speak at two area schools the first week of Sarasota during Stand Up Sarasota Week. Taylor, who is straight but has advocated for LGBT rights since ranking third in the country in the 197-pound NCAA wrestling weight class two years ago, will appear at Booker and Riverview Sept. 4 and Sept. 7, respectively. He is also scheduled to speak at Laurel Nokomis.
The week, which is endorsed by Sarasota Mayor Suzanne Atwell, gives students, parents and teachers a chance to address bullying in schools and LGBT issues.
Also scheduled during Stand Up Sarasota week is a symposium featuring Taylor, The Bully Vaccine author Jen Hancock and break out discussions on teen addiction and prescription drug abuse. Parents and guardians are also invited to learn how to talk to children about sex, STDs and cyber-bullying.
The symposium on Sept. 6 is at the Unitarian Universalist Church at 3975 Fruitville Rd. at 5 p.m. There is no fee to participate and dinner and a copy of The Bully Vaccine are included. For more information or to RSVP, call 941-951-2576.
