When is Day of Silence (US) 2023 and what does it mean?
| Updated on
The Day of Silence is an annual event, usually held in April, that serves as a day of protest for the LGBTQ+ community. On this day, people all over the world take a vow of silence to raise awareness of the struggles faced by members of the LGBTQ+ community, to highlight the silencing and erasure of LGBTQ+ people at school.
The Day of Silence was first started in 1996 by a group of students at the University of Virginia. Since then, it has become a yearly event and is now observed in all 50 states in the US, as well as in countries around the world.
Article continues below
During the day, people take a vow of silence to show solidarity with LGBTQ+ people who have faced discrimination and violence. Supporters of the day also raise awareness of issues faced by LGBTQ+ people, such as bullying and violence.
This day is important to the LGBTQ+ community because it shows that their voice matters. By taking a day of silence, people are saying that the struggles faced by LGBTQ+ people should not be ignored or silenced.
When is the Day of Silence 2023?
In 2023, the Day of Silence falls on Sunday, April 23.
Article continues below
How did Day of Silence first start off?
The Day of Silence started off in 1996 with a group of 150 students in a single school in the United States — the University of Virginia. The students were protesting the bullying, harassment, and silencing of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) students.
The Day of Silence was organized by students in the Gay, Lesbian, and Straight Education Network (GLSEN) and was meant to raise awareness of the issue and to encourage students to speak out against discrimination, harassment in their schools. The Day of Silence is now celebrated by students in over 8,000 schools worldwide.
Article continues below
During the Day of Silence, students take a vow of silence to demonstrate their commitment to creating an inclusive and safe school environment. The Day of Silence is an important day to stand in solidarity with students who have experienced or are experiencing bullying and harassment based on their gender identity and/or sexual orientation.
What is the significance of Day of Silence?
The Day of Silence is a day of action in which students across the country take a vow of silence to bring attention to the silencing and erasure of LGBTQ+ people at school.
The Day of Silence is an important moment for LGBTQ+ students to show solidarity with one another and to stand up for their rights. It is also a way for allies to show their support for the LGBTQ+ community. Through silence, students can make a powerful statement about the need for acceptance and understanding for all individuals regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
Article continues below
The Day of Silence serves as a reminder to the adults in the lives of LGBTQ+ youth that they need to be supportive of these young people and their needs. It also helps to bring attention to the issues of bullying and harassment that LGBTQ+ youth often face in schools. This day is an opportunity for schools to take action and create a safe and supportive environment for all students.
Other relevant LGBTQ+ awareness days
In addition to Day of Silence, there are many other LGBTQ+ awareness periods throughout the year. These days help to raise awareness of the LGBTQ+ community and fight discrimination.
Check out these other relevant LGBTQ+ awareness days:
- Pride Month 2023
- Stonewall Riots Anniversary 2023
- Wear It Purple Day 2023
- National Coming Out Day 2023
Article continues below
