Day of Silence

What it’s all about: The first “Day of Silence” was held in 1996 as a symbolic way to call attention to the silencing effects of bullying individuals who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender (LGBT). Students who participate in the Day of Silence take a vow of silence on April 20th, in order to promote safer schools and take a stand against harassment. By 2008, the Day of Silence had reached over 8,000 middle schools, high schools, colleges and universities across the country. And you can be a part of it too…April 20th is just around the corner.

The Day of Silence is just one event affiliated with the “Gay, Lesbian, and Straight Education Network” (GLSEN), which is a national education organization devoted to creating safer schools and eliminating harassment of LGBT students.

There are a number of ways you can get involved with the Day of Silence and GLSEN! Here are just a few…

Register and Participate: Go to the “Register” page of the Day of Silence website. Let them know you’re planning to participate, and you’ll also receive resources and news updates.

Tweet the Silence: If you have a twitter account and plan to be silent on April 20th, tweet about it! Tweet the following: “On April 20th, I will be silent for #DayOfSilence because…” and give your reason.

Organize a Day of Silence event at your own school: The Day of Silence website provides resources and a helpful guide if you’d like to organize an event at your school in support of Day of Silence. Follow their steps, and get prepared!

Apply to become a GLSEN Student Ambassador: Would you like to take your commitment to anti-bullying a step further? Apply to become a GLSEN Student Ambassador!

Get connected!