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> WHY SILENCE?
 For
too long, the silencing of GLBT people and their allies has been
the norm. Whether it's the lack of GLBT-inclusive material in
educational resources, or the isolation people face in their
coming out process, such silence and silencing affects us all in
a profound way.
Just as profound, however, can be the use of silence as a form
of protest. The Day of Silence moves the power of these personal
experiences to a community-focused effort. The Day of Silence is
a way of turning silence on its head, of reclaiming silence as a
tool.
The Day of Silence institutes a visible silence, a silence
during which participants protest anti-GLBT discrimination and
abuse. Such an effort also allows us to reflect upon how
powerful silencing can be, to focus on how we can make our own
voices stronger and to begin to stop silencing ourselves.
> DAY OF SILENCE HISTORY
Founded in 1996, the Day of Silence has become the largest
single student-led action towards creating safer schools for
all, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity or gender
expression. From the first-ever Day of Silence at the University
of Virginia in 1996, to the organizing efforts in over 1,900
middle schools, high schools, colleges and universities across
the country in 2004, its textured history reflects its diversity
in both numbers and reach.
> FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
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How can I
participate if my classes require me to talk?
Be reasonable. Use your judgment as to when you should speak.
You may wish to take a vow of silence for an hour, or only
participating while not in a class that requires your
participation.
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Does
participating mean that people will think I’m not straight?
Participating means that you support safe schools and equality
for all people, regardless of sexual orientation and gender
identity. Many schools find that most participants are
heterosexual.
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What should
I do if someone reacts in a hostile way to me participating in
the Day of Silence?
We provided you with the speaking cards; hand that person
a pink card and simply walk away. Remember that we are
participating in a peaceful protest, keeping in mind the great
leaders of our time, such as Gandhi and Martin Luther King,
Jr. If you feel threatened at any time, remember that there
are several safe spaces for you to go at any time during the
day including:
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