Students Across Florida Stand Against Bullying
Today thousands of students in Florida and across the country are participating in The Day of Silence; An opportunity to educate students and teachers alike about an epidemic of bullying that is sweeping our nation and disproportionately effecting LGBTQ students.
The event is designed to illustrate the silencing effect of this bullying and harassment of LGBTQ students and those perceived to be LGBTQ. According to GLSEN 9 out of 10 LGBTQ students report being bullied or harassed at school and more than 60% of students felt unsafe at school because of their sexual orientation or gender identity. 86.2% of LGBT students reported being verbally harassed, 44.1% reported being physically harassed and 22.1% even reported being physically assaulted at school in the past year because of their sexual. This is why student led education events like The Day Of Silence are more important than ever.
Equality Florida's Gay-Straight Alliance Network is working to help students across the state participate in The Day Of Silence by:
- Acting as a watch dog for schools who suppress LGBTQ students expression
- Working with school districts across the state to ensure our students have their support
- Consulting with GSA student leaders on event ideas and execution
- Dispersing reminders and support materials in the months and days running up to The Day Of Silence
To find out more information about Equality Florida's GSA Network and our work to support LGBTQ youth in Florida check out our website.