Anonymous Attacks Target LGBTQ+ Students in Queer Liberation Society
QLS Logo on its Canvas page, created by Molly Torinus, represents LGBTQ+ solidarity.
In recent weeks, members of the Queer Liberation Society (QLS) at Stanford Online High School (OHS) have faced a surge of targeted harassment, raising concerns about the safety and inclusivity of the school’s virtual community. Anonymous guest accounts infiltrated online student spaces, bombarding queer students with homophobic slurs and distributing offensive content, including racist caricatures.
The incidents, which occurred in early September, disrupted group discussions and student-organized events, sparking widespread condemnation from the OHS administration and student body. The anonymous attacks specifically targeted LGBTQ+ students, many of whom participate in the Queer Liberation Society, a student-led group dedicated to creating a safe and affirming environment for queer individuals.
In a statement to the community, Nicole Varveris, Director of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Belonging, and Access at OHS, emphasized the school’s commitment to fostering an inclusive environment. “We will not tolerate behavior that seeks to marginalize or intimidate members of our community. Each student at OHS deserves to feel valued, respected, and supported,” she said.
The Queer Liberation Society, founded last year by Molly Torinus (’27), has become a vital resource for LGBTQ+ students at OHS. Initially launched as an informal underground group, the QLS was officially recognized as an identity-affirming circle in late 2023. It offers a space where queer students and allies can discuss LGBTQ+ topics, share creative works, and find support in moments of discrimination or personal struggle.
“The attacks were shocking and disheartening,” Torinus said in an interview. “We created the QLS to provide a safe space for queer students, but these recent events highlight how vulnerable we can still feel, even in spaces meant for liberation.”
Other members echoed her sentiment. “The messages were incredibly hurtful, but the way the group rallied together afterward reminded me why spaces like this are so important,” said one student, who requested anonymity for safety reasons.
The harassment has prompted action from both the OHS administration and student leaders. Varveris confirmed that the school is investigating the incidents, including tracking the guest accounts responsible for the attacks. “We are working closely with our IT department to ensure these individuals are held accountable and that measures are put in place to prevent similar incidents in the future,” she said.
The administration has also implemented additional security measures for online gatherings and student circles, such as restricting access to verified OHS accounts and offering training on safeguarding virtual spaces.
For many students, however, the events underscore the ongoing challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals, even within communities that strive to be inclusive. “This isn’t just about a few hateful messages—it’s a reminder of the larger systems of prejudice we’re up against,” Torinus said.
Despite the challenges, the QLS remains committed to its mission. The group organizes weekly meetings, where students engage with literature, art, and discussions centered on queerness and activism. Recent sessions have addressed topics such as queer love and intersectionality, providing members with both educational resources and emotional support.
Jasmine Li, a 12th-grade student and ally, emphasized the importance of the group’s work. “The QLS has taught me so much about how to be a better ally,” she said. “It’s a space where people can feel seen, and the art and literature we share really capture the beauty of queerness.”
As the community processes the recent harassment, students and staff are focused on resilience and advocacy. “This experience has shown us how much work there is still to do, but it’s also reminded us of the strength and solidarity within the queer community at OHS,” Torinus said.
For now, the QLS remains a critical space for students seeking connection and understanding. As one anonymous member put it, “These attacks won’t stop us. If anything, they’ve made us more determined to stand together and show that hate has no place here.