The GLSEN Day of Silence is a national student-led demonstration where LGBTQ+ students and allies all around the country—and the world—take a vow of silence to protest the harmful effects of harassment and discrimination of LGBTQ+ people in schools. This year’s Day of Silence will be on April 14.
GLSEN - the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network - was founded by teachers in the 1990 to help create affirmative learning environments for LGBTQ+ youth.
The Day of Silence was founded in the mid-90s by two college students in response to the harmful effects of harassment and discrimination that LGBTQ+ students face in school. Individuals are encouraged to take a vow of silence for the day and participate in “Break the Silence '' rallies, standing in solidarity with LGBTQ+ students and raising awareness for their experiences.
In their guide for students participating in the Day of Silence, GLSEN shared the following statistics:
- 82% of LGBTQ+ students experienced first-hand harassment or bullying in their school.
- 71% of students reported that their classrooms did not include any LGBTQ+ topics.
- More than 30% of LGBTQ+ students reported missing school because they felt unsafe or uncomfortable.
- Over half of all LGBTQ+ students of color experienced in-person victimization based on race/ethnicity.
Education is a human right, and it is important for all students to feel safe and represented in their learning environments. GLSEN shares a variety of different ways that you and your community can organize to participate in the Day of Silence.
If you’re looking to learn more about LGBTQ+ history, the experiences of LGBTQ+ people, or looking for inspiration on how to create change in your community, be sure to check out some of these Pride books from the Yonkers Public Library and ask your local librarian for assistance.
Alison Robles is a part-time page at the Crestwood Library. She is an avid reader with a passion for YA lit, history and science fiction. A Yonkers native, she graduated from Iona University in 2020 with a dual-degree in Marketing and Public Relations