Day Of Silence Celebrating Thirty Years

The “Day of Silence" is Glisten's (formerly GLSEN) annual Day of Action that began in the mid-1990s as a student-led protest against the silencing & marginalization youth in schools. Each year on the 2nd Friday in April students & allies across the country take part to bring visibility to the bullying, discrimination & lack of affirmation that many LGBTQ young people still face in learning environments. “Day of Silence" has grown into a national movement uplifting student voices & calling for schools where every young person can learn safely & authentically. In Glisten’s most recent National School Climate Survey (NSCS) released last month reported that 2 in 3 students feel unsafe due to their sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression. Melanie Willingham-Jaggers, Glisten Chief Executive Officer stated, “Today’s administration in the U.S. wants us to stay silent, submit to their biased & hurtful conformity & stop fighting for our right to be authentically ourselves. We urge supporters to use their social platforms & check in with local chapters to be boots on the ground to help LGBTQ+ students feel seen, heard, supported & less alone. By participating in the ‘Day of Silence,’ you are showing solidarity with young people as they navigate identity, safety & belonging. Our voices matter.” K-12 students with more supportive educators, anti-bullying policies that address sexual orientation & gender identity with inclusive learning & GSA presence report a higher sense of belonging, higher GPAs & higher attendance. For over 35 years Glisten has been dedicated to establishing inclusive K-12 schools & learning environments.

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