Apr 26, 2006 06:37
What is the Day of Silence®?
Now in its tenth year, the Day of Silence, a project of GLSEN® or the Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network in collaboration with the United States Student Association (USSA), is a student-led day of action where those who support making anti-LGBT bullying and harassment unacceptable in schools participate in events to recognize and protest the discrimination and harassment-in effect, the silencing-experienced by lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) students and their allies.
The Day of Silence® is an annual opportunity for students to tell their truths about anti-LGBT bullying, violence and harassment. A GLSEN® commissioned survey, From Teasing to Torment: School Climate in America conducted by Harris Interactive, found that sexual orientation and gender expression are among the top three reasons teens report that students are harassed at their schools. GLSEN’s 2003 National School Climate Survey found that 4 out of 5 LGBT students report verbal, sexual or physical harassment at school and more than 30% report missing at least a day of school in the past month out of fear for their personal safety.
Who started the Day of Silence®?
In 1996 students at the University of Virginia organized the first Day of Silence® with over 150 students participating. In 1997 organizers took their effort national and nearly 100 colleges and universities participated. In 2001 GLSEN® became the official organizational sponsor with new funding, staff and volunteers.
What is GLSEN®?
GLSEN®, or the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network, now in its tenth year, is the leading national education organization addressing the serious problems of anti-LGBT name-calling, bullying and harassment that affect ALL students - LGBT and straight alike - in our nation’s schools. Established nationally in 1995, GLSEN® envisions a world in which every child learns to respect and accept all people, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity/expression. For more information on GLSEN’s educational resources, public education campaigns, public policy agenda, student organizing programs, research or development initiatives, visit www.glsen.org.