GLSEN Statement on International Youth Day

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Kari Hudnell Media Relations Manager press@glsen.org 646-388-6575

GLSEN Statement on International Youth Day

NEW YORK (August 12, 2015) – GLSEN’s Chief Research & Strategy Officer, Dr. Joe Kosciw, who leads  GLSEN’s international work, made the following statement in recognition of International Youth Day, celebrated on August 12.

“Today we recognize International Youth Day which celebrates the crucial role youth play in improving their communities and their vital contribution to every country and society. This year’s theme, ‘Youth Civic Engagement,’ aligns with GLSEN’s work to empower lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender (LGBT) and ally youth to create safe and affirming schools in their communities. GLSEN’s student leadership programs and student-led Days of Action promote and engage youth to be advocates for change in their schools and communities and to further build their role as leaders in the community. Recognizing that the voices of youth create change both in the U.S. and abroad, we work regularly with international partner organizations to amplify student voices and effect change around the world.”

GLSEN has long been a leader in the movement to make schools safer and more inclusive for LGBT students in the US, and we have been committed to supporting a similar mission worldwide. Our current efforts include:

• Creating an international network of scholars and advocates to make the world safer for LGBT youth;
• Partnering with international organizations, such as the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), to promote awareness of gender- and sexuality-based bullying worldwide;
• Continuing to support and provide technical expertise to other NGOs to develop research capacity to foster safe schools movements around the globe, including Canada, China, Ireland, Israel, South Africa and the United Kingdom; and
• Comparing the educational experiences of LGBT youth around the world.

About GLSEN

GLSEN is the leading national education organization focused on ensuring safe and affirming schools for all students. Celebrating its 25th year, 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.