Redesigned Org Affirms Schools For All

GLSEN is now Glisten transforming to strengthen & support youth & continuing their mission to create safe affirming schools for all with a fresh outlook & renewed energy. Since the org was founded in 1990 their name GLSEN represented the network of teachers & educators who first took action alarmed by the bullying & discrimination towards LGBTQ youth. Over 30 years later they’ve grown to represent 1.5 million youth, families, educators & advocates working to create safe schools nationwide. Expanding their reach beyond the school buildings creates ways for youth, families & allies to stay connected to a supportive community that understands them. Melanie Willingham-Jaggers, Chief Executive Officer stated, “Today, organizations like ours are facing unprecedented challenges at the local, state & federal levels. We cannot step back or give up in the face of erasure from anyone. It is more critical than ever for us to double down on our mission for all LGBTQ+ youth across the nation. “Glisten” is what we called ourselves out loud for decades. However, unlike an acronym, the name Glisten expresses the essence of the work that we do. It stands for what we represent. This is a year for transformation—not just for the Glisten team as individuals, but as an organization. This is not just a name change—it’s a name evolution. Much like the LGBTQ+ community, Glisten isn’t solely defined by the letters that represent the acronym. The brand name Glisten acts as a beacon for all LGBTQ+ youth, providing a shining, visible lifeline in schools & creating spaces where everyone can feel safe being visibly who they are.”

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