Day of Silence

2ndlogo.jpgShut-mouthed students stroll down the halls bearing stickers that compensate for their silence. Cards proclaiming their vow of silence for the day of April 18^th, the Day of Silence, are passed to perplexed teachers and non-petitioning peers. In schools across America, it will be accomplished this year, something that I sincerely hope will be put to action in the Harlan Community schools as well. But what is this all about? It is about change. Ending the silence. Every day gay teens are pressured to go with the norm, some fear their lives, all fear discrimination from those surrounding them, and fear whispering the truth of their sexuality. GLSEN (Gay Lebsian and and Straight Education Network) is a program that has organized the Day of Silence, to end the silence, scream the truth, and unite.

The Day of Silence began in 1996, with 150 students participating. Through ten years of promoting, effectively gaining ground on ‘ending the silence’, 2006 saw 1,900 schools sealing lips. It is the goal of GLSEN to acquire more, regardless of gender expression or orientation, to join the fight, making for safer schools and communities across the nation. This is the largest student-led organization, bound to become larger with you. Australia has also joined the protest, creating Australian programs for the same cause as well. Do not let it end with you. Do not remain silent on the issue. But then again… do.

Each and every person, student or teacher, can create a change on April 18^th, by taking a vow of silence for during that school day. I will be creating a petition to be signed, stickers to be worn, claiming your victory and battle to make a difference, and of course, will be meandering the school with no sound but the soundless. Join me! Here is how to get started: Go to dayofsilence.org to get more information on the program and sign up for your vow of silence online. You will be one person in the growing count to present to media on April 18^th, one person in the growing count, changing lives and principles. Sign my petition, boast it to everyone you know, and encourage golden silence for April 18^th. What are you going to do to end the silence?

Information on other programs supporting equality of gays include the following websites and organizations: gsanetwork.org, matthewshepard.org, glaad.org. Be part of a non-bias society and be an influence. There will be more information on The Day of Silence in my upcoming newsblogs and posts. ReNee Reising, HCHS News