GLSEN Congratulates Board Member Sirdeaner Walker on Award from the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention

NEW YORK -- GLSEN Board member Sirdeaner Walker received the Survivor Award from the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention at their annual Lifesavers Dinner on Wednesday in New York. The honor recognized Walker's efforts to advocate for anti-bullying laws, including the federal Safe Schools Improvement Act.

Walker lost her son Carl Joseph Walker-Hoover to suicide in April of 2009 after he endured anti-gay bullying at schools. She has become a tireless advocate for bullying-prevention efforts that effectively address the kind anti-lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) behavior that her son faced at school. Her advocacy and Carl's story are widely credited with helping to galvanize the current national focus on bullying prevention.

"I am so grateful for Sirdeaner's partnership and thrilled that her efforts are receiving this recognition," GLSEN Executive Director Eliza Byard said. "Out of unspeakable tragedy and in memory of her son, Sirdeaner has chosen to become a uniquely powerful advocate for safer schools for all children. Her leadership and service are a remarkable gift to GLSEN."

Walker became a national spokesperson for GLSEN in 2009, advocating for the Safe Schools Improvement Act and similar state and local bullying-prevention legislation, and joined the GLSEN National Board of Directors in 2010.

Walker continues her advocacy work today by testifying at an anti-bullying briefing on Capitol Hill. Laura Gottfried, GLSEN's Senior Director of Programs, will also testify.

About GLSEN
GLSEN, the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network, is the leading national education organization focused on ensuring safe schools for all students. Established in 1990, GLSEN envisions a world in which every child learns to respect and accept all people, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity/expression. GLSEN seeks to develop school climates where difference is valued for the positive contribution it makes to creating a more vibrant and diverse community. For information on GLSEN's research, educational resources, public policy advocacy, student organizing programs and educator training initiatives, visit www.glsen.org.