Day of Silence

Nearly 9 out of 10 LGBT students experience harassment in American schools each year, says GLSEN (Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network). Today, more than 20,000 students registered around the country for the watchdog organization’s National Day of Silence. Participants took vows of silence for to raise awareness about LGBT bullying in schools and colleges throughout the U.S.

GLSEN reports that as many as 60 percent of LGBT youth feel unsafe at school because of their sexual orientation. And nearly one out of three LGBT youth missed school in the past month because of safety concerns.

This year marks the 15th anniversary of the event first held at the University of Virginia. By 2001, the Day of Silence expanded and GLSEN became the official sponsor.

Want to learn more about how to prevent or stop bullying? GLSEN’s resources are available online.