Dear Friends of GLSEN Connecticut,
Once again Ally Week is almost upon us! Next week, October 18th - 22nd, in schools across the county, students will be leading events and activities to encourage people to become allies against anti-LGBT name calling, bullying and harassment in schools. And, they will also be supporting and celebrating those allies already involved!
In February 2008 I learned about the in-school murder of Lawrence King, and, at the same time, learned about the existence of GLSEN and the horrific necessity for its work. Prior to that, I had no idea about the harassment and danger LGBT students face in school every single day, despite being the parent of children in both elementary and middle school. And, shockingly, neither did anyone else I told.
I immediately emailed GLSEN Connecticut - wanting to get involved, needing to do something, desperate to create change. I was welcomed with open arms, and was honored to learn that I was considered an Ally in the fight to create safe schools. How quickly I realized that allies are sorely needed!
There have been so many committed to this fight for decades, and so many students suffering - often in silence - for much longer than that. This fight for dignity and respect has been waged by a relative few facing unthinkable hostility, apathy, and lack of awareness. I joined this movement to show those who have been struggling for so long that they are not alone. We really are in this together. Greater change is yet to come.
It doesn't matter if you are a parent or not, part of a school community or not, an activist or not. What does matter is that we all get involved knowing that every contribution makes a difference. The unpredictable ripple effect of one tiny action can be remarkable! You can start, as I did, by talking. Talk to a friend or relative, colleague or neighbor, your children's friends or a complete stranger.
Speak up if you hear anti-LGBT language. Ask if they know about the awful reality facing too many students in our communities. Share this moving letter from Sirdeaner Walker if someone says that their faith prohibits them from taking a stand. Explain that the crisis in our schools has nothing to do with "kids being kids" and everything to do with students' humanity and fundamental rights being unconscionably ignored.
I can suggest so many other easy ways to stand up for students! Take the Ally Pledge. Forward this email far and wide. Click here to access wonderful resources from GLSEN to learn "What You Can Do To Make A Positive Difference". Sign up for our e-newsletter if you don't already get it, and ask someone else to sign up also. Come to GLSEN Connecticut's monthly meetings - they're fun, casual and we're always productive.
And last, but certainly not least, you can do what I did this afternoon and make a donation to GLSEN Connecticut! This will help us get a Safe Space Kit into every school, and provide even greater support to our Small Grants Program. We offer grants of up to $200 to support the invaluable work of GSAs - school clubs known as Gay Straight Alliances that are often the only source of support and empowerment to LGBT youth at school.
As a parent I have always been concerned about the well-being of my children. As an Ally I am concerned about the safety and well-being of all students across Connecticut. Our students cannot change things alone, nor should we expect them to.
I want to decrease the feelings of invisibility, loneliness and worthlessness experienced by LGBT students. Remember that our youth are NOT disposable! They deserve much better than the dangerous, hurtful school environments that thrive across this country. Although progress has been made it is absolutely imperative that much more be done.
I am committed to working as long as it takes to make our schools safe for all students, in memory of those who are tragically no longer with us, and in honor of those who are. I hope you will join me.
Peace,
Liane Roseman
GLSEN Connecticut Co-Chair
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