Dear Friends of GLSEN Tampa Bay,

We are writing to bring attention and support to students in our community who plan to participate in the national Day of Silence.  The Day of Silence (www.dayofsilence.org) is one of the largest annual student-led actions in the country.  This student activity aims to silently and peacefully protest anti-lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) bullying, harassment, and name calling.   Because students who are targeted for anti-gay bullying often do not identify as LGBT, the Day of Silence represents a peaceful protest of a problem that affects all students no matter their sexual orientation or gender identity.

On Friday, April 11^th 2014, thousands of student across the state will vow to take a form of silence to call attention to the silencing effect that students experience who are victims of anti-LGBT bullying and violence. The Gay, Lesbian, and Straight Education Network (GLSEN) of Tampa Bay offers support to students and educator efforts throughout the year, and during specific days of action such as the Day of Silence, in order to promote students’ safety, respect, and support at school.   The Day of Silence is an opportunity for students to take the initiative to teach one another about diversity, respect, and safety for all students. Students gain leadership skills, provide a valuable service to the school community and empower themselves by realizing their ability to be engaged in making a difference in their school.

Students who participate in the Day of Silence do so in a way that does not disrupt the educational process: on the contrary; these efforts are designed to enhance education for all by making schools a safer place to be.  Typically, on the Day of Silence, rather than speaking, participants hand out “speaking cards” explaining their reasons for remaining silent throughout the day. There are numerous ways in which Day of Silence participants can meet their academic responsibilities without speaking. With the support of teachers, students could lead or take part in a “silent lesson” or complete a written assignment.

When every student is safe from bullying and violence, the whole community will benefit. Please join us in supporting this cause by announcing the upcoming Day of Silence to the colleagues, peers, and leaders in your schools or community. A version of this letter has already been shared with School Boards, Superintendents, and Teacher Union leaders to help highlight the Day of Silence.  For additional reasons why a Day of Silence is important to anti-bullying efforts, please see our attached research brief on school climate in Florida. To learn more about the Day of Silence, including ideas for participation, please visit www.dayofsilence.org.  

Sincerely,