NATIONAL DAY OF SILENCE
National Day of Silence in April each year is a student-led movement to protest bullying and harassment of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) students and those who support them. The Day of Silence brings awareness and illustrates to the schools and the colleges how intimidation, name-calling, and general bullying have a silencing effect. Participating students take a day-long vow of silence.
Bullying and harassment come in several forms. Whether it comes in a physical or verbal form, both are harmful and leave lasting damage. Bullies also harass by damaging property, manipulation or intimidation. No matter the form, the effects on the individual and surrounding community can be destructive.
HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalDayOfSilence
- Organize an event.
- Promote programs that eliminate bullying and open up dialogue.
- Take a vow of silence to demonstrate how bullying silences the victim.
- Make your schools a supportive and encouraging environment for learning.
- Show your support for the LGBT community by using #NationalDayofSilence on Social Media to bring awareness to this special day.
NATIONAL DAY OF SILENCE HISTORY
As part of a class assignment on non-violent protests, the University of Virginia students organized the first Day of Silence in 1996. Since then, the National Day of Silence has been observed each year in April. Students are encouraged to gain permission from their school before organizing an event.
More information can be found at GLSEN.org.
Silence
Q. Do I need to register to participate in the day?
A. No, but it is encouraged. glsen.org provides free resources and updates to help you plan the day.
Q. Can participate virtually?
A. Yes. Both virtual and in-person events will be hosted.
