Happy New Year! January is a time of new beginnings, and often a time of great resolve.  There is palpable energy around fresh starts, and a commitment to the pledge "this will finally be the year that....".  How many of us have resolved to exercise more, quit smoking, or give more quality time to family and friends? But, by the time spring rolls around, the entire concept of a resolution feels as far away as the holidays, and with a wistful, "oh well, maybe next year" we just move on?
 
Here at GLSEN Connecticut we are both humbled and motivated by the knowledge that, for many LGBT students, leading a life filled with almost incomprehensible resolve is necessary 365 days a year.  Imagine facing each day struggling to decide if being true to yourself is worth the price you must pay in isolation, terror and harassment.  Imagine the courage it takes to push through the panic churning in your gut to get onto the school bus, through the hallways and into your classroom - knowing that by the time you get there you will be as exhausted as if you were at the end of a long week instead of merely at the beginning of your day.
 
For Connecticut's LGBT students who feel despair instead of hope at the beginning of a new year we would like to show them that our resolve can match theirs.  For the students wondering why there isn't even one adult willing to stand up for them we would like them to know that their life does matter to each and every GLSEN Connecticut supporter, and we passionately believe that their struggle is worth it.  For those LGBT students resigned to the fact that nothing will change this year either we want to prove them wrong!
 
Will you join us resolving to make 2010 a much safer year for all of Connecticut's students? Will you show our LGBT youth that they can count on us, that we will support them, and that we will work to improve their school lives even - and especially - when the odds are stacked against them?  

 

Your generous support makes a crucial difference.  We are always grateful for every single donation, regardless of the amount.  Thank you for opening your hearts as we forge into 2010.  We are honored to have your partnership as we work toward safer schools for all.
 

Peace,