Created in 1996, Day of Silence (DOS) is a campaign that seeks to shed light on what many LGBTQ youth experience daily. Initially intended to focus on this problem within the school systems, it has since expanded into workplaces, university campuses, and sporting events. Yearly, millions participate by staying silent for the duration of their day, representing the silencing of LGBTQ students. This year, millions are expected to participate in planned silence across universities, workplaces, and sporting events.
The Day of Silence was created by a University of Virginia student named Maria Pulzetti. She felt that LGBTQ youth were consistently silenced and ignored by not only parents but also school administrators, and that their concerns and complaints were falling on deaf ears. Inspired by this, Maria created the Day of Silence as a one-time event held during the University’s LGBTQ pride week. She believed the day would promote awareness amongst those who might not have been tuned into these issues, by surrounding them with a silence they couldn’t help but notice.
In 1997, one year after the day’s creation, it went national, with over 100 institutions participating. In 2000, GLSEN, one of the largest LGBTQ education networks in the country, adopted the Day of Silence as one of their official projects. Today, students at all levels participate in the day. Many participants choose to wear tape over their mouths or Xs on their hands to further call attention to the movement.
At the end of day, the silence is typically broken with a rally or speaking event, allowing all participants to end their vow together through a Night of Noise. Although some school districts oppose the day, considering it disruptive, most support it, actively encouraging participation through the school’s LGBTQ alliance clubs. Today, there are over 10,000 institutions registered as participants in the day of silence. All 50 states are represented in this number, as well as a number of other countries, including Singapore and New Zealand. Day of Silence continues to grow, as more and more people become aware of the issues facing LGBTQ youth. You can participate in this year’s Day of Silence by registering on the GLSEN website.
BY THE NUMBERS (Facts to know)
1 in 8 – the number of LGBTQ people who have experienced unequal treatment from healthcare staff.
46% – the percentage of lesbian, gay, and bisexual people who are open about their sexual orientation with their family.
4.1% – the estimated percentage of women who identify as LGBT.
350,000 – the number of people in the LGBTQ community that are transgender women.
1 in 5 – the number of LGBTQ women living in poverty.
43% – the percentage of LGBTQ employees who haven’t revealed their orientation at work.
<$12,000 – the annual income earned by 22% of LGBTQ people.
42% of people who identify as LGBTQ report feeling unwelcome in their environment.
Need for a safe space - Over half of LGBTQ students say they feel unsafe in school.
Twice as likely - LQBTQ youth are twice as likely as their straight peers to experience physical harassment and bullying.
Almost 100% - 92% of LGBTQ youth report receiving negative messages about their sexuality and identity.
Optimism - 77% percent of LGBTQ youth are optimistic that these things will improve.
61% of LGBTQ Americans say they or someone they know has been bullied or harassed for their sexual orientation.
10% of LGBTQ Americans have felt silenced because of their sexual orientation.
5% of LGTBQ Americans have not yet come out because they are afraid of the consequences.
5% of LGBTQ Americans have trouble connecting with others because of their sexual orientation.
20% of LGBTQ Americans think it's important to teach youth tolerance.
WHY DAY OF SILENCE IS IMPORTANT
It draws attention to a very important issue. LGBTQ bullying is an epidemic in our schools. This is an excellent way to promote awareness and discussion of this issue.
Anyone can participate
It’s easy to participate in Day of Silence — don’t talk. This is a movement almost anyone can experience, no picket signs required
It’s a growing movement
Starting in 1996 on just one college campus, the movement has spread to over 10,000 institutions. Become part of something that’s growing all the time.
Will I get in trouble for participating?
Make sure to check with your school or employer first, but you should be ok to take the vow as long as they have a heads-up.
Where can I find other participants?
Check in with your school’s GSA or look for GLSEN chapters in your area. They will direct you further in how to participate in a group.
Will a Day of Silence help?
One day alone won’t solve this problem, but you can certainly be a part of the solution. Promoting conversation and awareness of this issue is a big step in working on these issues.