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Letter From GLSEN Washington State
Dear GLSEN Washington State/WA GSA Supporter,
Greetings! Since the start of the school year many GSA clubs have started meeting and planning events and activities.Many people call or email me asking about ideas for their clubs. What can we do until the Day of Silence in April? Besides sponsoring the Day of Silence GLSEN offers many activities and events for students to keep engaged for the entire year. September: During this back to school month, it may be hard for high school students to feel like they fit into school. Especially incoming 9th graders or others entering high school for the first time. GLSEN has a "Safe Space Kit" that can be purchased or downloaded from www.glsen.org.This "Safe Space Kit" is designed for educators to help make their classrooms "Safe Spaces" for all students. GSA clubs can take the lead and "train" teachers on how to create safe environments. October: During October is National LGBT History Month. Last month's email I gave an email with a variety of information about prominent LGBT people in American history. October is also when GLSEN sponsors Ally Week. (www.allyweek.org) Ally Week is a time for GSA clubs to find their Allies in school. Allies are people who are friends or supporters. November: During November we remember our Trans community by recognizing Transgender Day of Remembrance. It raises awareness about crimes against Transgender People. You can visit the GSA Network to find out facts and resources to help celebrate the Transgender Day of Remembrance. January: During January GSA Clubs can plan a No Name Calling Week. Information and Resources can be found at www.nonamecallingweek.org. No Name Calling week is usually the last Full Week of January. January we also celebrate Dr. MLK Jr Organizing weekend. MLK Organizing Weekend in Honor of Bayard Rustin is a student-led action focusing on coalition-building strategies that Bayard Rustin used to assist fellow activists, including Martin Luther King Jr., to create social change. Information and resources can be found at www.dayofsilence.org/mlk. As you can see there is a variety of activities and events that can be planned in your school! If you would like to request a training or have us come speak to your students please feel free to email me at joe@glsenwa.org. We look forward to working with you this year! Joseph R Bento
David Hildebrand
Co-Chairs
GLSEN Washington State
Washington State GSA Network
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