The Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network (GLSEN) will launch a public education campaign entitled Teach Respect on Apr. 13. The launch of the campaign will coincide with the culmination of the Day of Silence, during which more than 4,000 schools in all 50 states and Puerto Rico will take a vow of silence to bring attention to the bias and harassment experienced by LGBT students and their allies.
According to GLSEN’s 2003 National School Climate Survey, four out of five LGBT students report being verbally, physically, or sexually harassed at school because of their sexual orientation. The study also found that inclusive ‘safe schools’ policies, teacher training sessions on LGBT issues, and gay-straight alliances are parts of the solution to ensure schools are safe and effective environments for all students.
Locally, the Day of Silence will culminate with a Night of Noise rally at the State of Illinois Building, 100 W. Randolph, April 13, 5:30-7:30, drehobl@glsenchicago.org.