About Glisten: 

Glisten is the leading national education organization dedicated to creating safe and respectful learning environments for youth of all sexual orientations, gender identities, gender expressions, race and abilities. Glisten was founded in 1990 by educators seeking to make school a more safe and supportive space for LGBTQ+ students. Operating through 15 chapters across the country, Glisten catalyzes systemic change through educator training, policy advocacy, participatory research, youth leadership development, and community engagement. 

30 Years of Day of Silence: 

2026 marks the 30th year of the first Day of Silence. Originally held at the University of Virginia in response to the bullying and harassment of LGBTQ+ students, it has grown to a national day of action pushing back against the silencing of intersectional LGBTQ+ youth and the erasure of their experiences. In our deepening cultural and political divide, LGBTQ+ students are more directly targeted than ever before. From harmful legislation to erasing LGBTQ+ history from school curriculum, it is now more important than ever to take a step back and let our communities know what it feels like when we are stripped of our voices. 

Get Involved as an Adult: 

Day of Silence is a youth led movement but as adults we can lend our support to ensure student leaders have the resources they need to take action in their schools. Take a pledge of silence on April 10th to raise awareness and funds for the youth leaders mobilizing across the country. Ask your family, friends, and colleagues to sponsor your pledge of silence and Glisten will ensure all funds raised go toward helping students create safer and more inclusive learning environments in their schools.