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In recent months, the well-being of LGBTQ+ students has become increasingly concerning. Discover methods to offer intersectional #MentalHealth services to better address their needs. https://bit.ly/3L1YE4J #LGBTQStudents #StudentMentalHealh #SupportStudents

Dive into ASBJ to explore how you can take action to create safer schools for nonbinary students. Vanessa Ford & Rebecca Kling share key principles for promoting equity and inclusion for LGBTQ+ students. Let's work together to foster environments where every student can thrive!

As a new school year approaches, I’ve had a few LGBTQ+ caregivers reach out asking me for help and recommendations on how to ensure a smooth transition for their youth on changing schools, grades, friendships etc. It’s important to note that these individuals have a vastly different experience which are unique to the LGBTQ+ community. Challenges these individuals face require practical strategies and insights which may require help from caregivers to create a nurturing environment. Environments which engage academic success, emotional well-being, and a sense of belonging. Creating an environment of open communication is vital for LGBTQ+ youth. I believe this applies to all youth, and I challenge you to encourage everyone; regardless of orientation to express their feelings, fears, and hopes about returning to school. Listening actively validates people’s emotions, and provides reassurance that they are supported unconditionally. Check-in regularly to demonstrate your concern and celebrate achievements along the way. Educating yourself about school policies, laws, and resources available to LGBTQ+ students is vital. Familiarize yourself and teach youth about their rights while interacting with school administrators, teachers, and counselors. By being well-informed, you can effectively teach and advocate for inclusive policies, safer spaces, and supportive resources within the school environment. Many schools have LGBTQ+ clubs. Encouraging participation in these clubs provides a safe space all youth to connect, share experiences, and build supportive relationships. Consider volunteering or offering support to these clubs by sharing your experiences, expertise and/or resources. You can contribute by actively engaging with these clubs which help create an inclusive school culture that uplifts not only LGBTQ+ youth but all youth. It’s up to everyone to create safe spaces for youth. How are you going to help? #lgbtqsupport #lgbtqschools #inclusiveschool #lgbtqmentalhealth #lgbtqinclusion #deischool #dei #deistrategy

Today is Day of (No) Silence—a day filled with action and support for LGBTQ+ youth across the country experiencing silencing and erasure in schools. While historically participants have taken a vow of silence, GLSEN is encouraging active advocacy and dialogue to combat the surge in anti-LGBTQ+ legislation and to foster inclusivity in educational spaces. We’re just 4 months into the year, and already over 475 anti-LGBTQ+ bills have been introduced. Over 80% of LGBTQ+ students report feeling unsafe at school. Given these alarming statistics, the urgency to mobilize for LGBTQ+ rights and inclusivity has never been greater. Learn how to rise up, speak out, and take action for a brighter future here: glsen.org/dayofnosilence

Today is GLSEN's National Day of (No) Silence, a day dedicated to recognizing the effects of harassment and discrimination of LGBTQ+ people in schools. Participating in the day of silence "speaks" volumes, and I'm proud to say that our office held a moment of silence this morning to stand in solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community. With over 800 anti-LGBTQ+ bills introduced last year, it's crucial to acknowledge and stand up against these bills that impact millions in the community. These bills are catalysts that lead to bullying, harassment, discrimination, and hate crimes in schools, the workplace, public settings, and even our own homes. Let's all take a moment today to reflect on the importance of creating safe spaces for LGBTQ+ individuals and actively work towards a future where everyone feels accepted and valued. Check out the link for more information on GLSEN and the history of Day of (No) Silence. #DayOfNoSilence #LGBTQ+ #GLSEN #TEKsystems

As we close out Pride Month, there’s new research we just released with Theirworld among LGBTQ+ youth. The findings are discouraging: • 52% of LGBTQ+ youth face bullying • 38% don’t feel schools are safe • 35% have missed school due to bullying Learning in a safe educational environment is a fundamental right that all children deserve. We need officials at all levels of government who will strongly advocate for more inclusive education policies that help children feel safer in school. https://t.co/3sCf382be7

In 1996, two students at the University of Virginia started Day of Silence, a peaceful protest against anti-LGBT hate speech and harassment. Students would refrain from speaking throughout the day, culminating in Breaking the Silence rallies. Lead by GLSEN, the day is now called Day of (No) Silence in order to encourage a day of action: "With more than 800 anti-LGBTQ+ bills introduced last year, we must Rise Up and Take Action. GLSEN’s Day of NO Silence is a nationally-recognized student-led demonstration where LGBTQ+ students and allies all around the country—and the world— protest the harmful effects of harassment and discrimination of LGBTQ+ people in schools. Silent Option: For those who may not feel safe or comfortable speaking out, the option of participating in a silent protest remains available. This ensures that everyone can contribute to the movement in a manner that aligns with their comfort level." Learn more about Day of (No) Silence and how you can get involved: https://buff.ly/49R98ie #YWBoston #DEI #DayOfSilence #DayOfNoSilence #BreakingtheSilence #RiseUpandTakeAction #RiseUpForLGBTQ

While LGBTQ+ students and allies protest and take action for Day of (No) Silence, it is important that we remain outspoken. As an organization with a mission of improving health and well-being for youth and communities by championing science, we’re committed to fight for evidence-based policies and practices that promote inclusivity and support the well-being of all students. With the recent tragedy of Nex Benedict, our CEO Vignetta Charles and Vice President of Science, Equity, & Integration, Madhuri Jha, MPH, LCSW, wrote an op-ed on the prioritization of supporting LGBTQ+ students. This piece not only highlights the importance of safe spaces where young people can realize their full potential, but how we owe it to LGBTQ+ youth to do better. Read more here: https://hubs.la/Q02s0g-q0 #DayOfSilence #LGBTQ #TeenHealth #AdolescentHealth #HealthEquity #Community #Inclusivity #LGBTQHealth #Health #NationalDayOfSilence #DayOfSilence24

A sense of belonging and community is known to help students perform better in school and can also support students' mental health. Anti-DEI bills in many states are deeply impacting the mental health of LGBTQ and other underrepresented groups by limiting specialized resources for students. Learn how leaders in higher education can promote belonging and facilitate connection to better support their LGBTQ students via Inside Higher Ed: https://lnkd.in/ghY9aqEq

Great article on key terms all school administrators and educators should know, as they lead their school community towards building more welcoming schools that create a sense of belonging for LGBTQ students. Educate yourself! #k12 #LGBTQ #students #teachers #equityineducation #equityandinclusion