GLSEN, the Gay, Lesbian & Straight Network concerned with LGBT+ safety in k-12 Schools, urges the LGBT community to speak up throughout the week leading up to the Day of (no) Silence on April 11. The ongoing bias and abuse of LGBTQ+ people in schools and the record number of anti-LGBTQ bills that were introduced in 2023 has this community worried.
Consequently, GLSEN suggests that NOW allies and students across the United States protest the harassment and discrimination of LGBTQ people BEFORE the Day of Silence on Friday, April 11. This year, prepare for this day across the United States in universities, workplaces, and sporting events.
What You Can Do: Purposeful Decorating
- Consider decorating the classroom, office, and library.
- Create a “rainbow” library by displaying books featuring LGBTQ+ characters.
- List LGBTQ + advocates, thinkers, and artists.
Get out the Markers!
- If your school doesn’t have a GSA, Gender and Sexuality Alliance Club that aims to create a safe, welcoming and inclusive school environment for all students, consider becoming a sponsor.
- Plan a letter-writing lesson: students can write to local state legislators, principals or other school leaders such as Superintendents.
Be Loud!
- Prepare to testify before your school board or state legislature in support of inclusive policies.
- Get resources from the School Board’s School and Equality Federation Member organization.
- Send a message to Congress via GLSEN’s Action Center.
Remember the Golden Rule on Day of (no) Silence: If you can’t say anything nice, don’t say anything at all!
When Your Child Is Gay: What You Need To Know
For more detailed advice, see book, co-authored with a mother of a gay son and a psychiatrist, Jonathan L. Tobkes, M.D.
