Over 100 out and proud high school students and allies gathered downtown to break the silence about anti-gay bullying and harassment in schools.
The gathering took place downtown April 25 at the Thompson Center to mark the annual Night of Noise celebration—a night of speaking out, dancing and celebrating that followed participation in the 12th annual national Day of Silence. Over 65 area high schools registered to participate in the Day of Silence with The Illinois Safe Schools Alliance, according to Executive Director Shannon Sullivan. Many schools opted to register with The Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network ( GLSEN ) , which has sponsored the national event since 2001.
The Day of Silence, created in 1996 by University of Virginia students, brings attention to anti-gay bullying, harassment and words in schools. A record-breaking 7,500 K-12 schools across the United States registered with GLSEN to participate this year. This year's event honored 15-year-old Lawrence King, a California junior high school student who was killed mid-February because of his sexual orientation and gender expression.
During the colorful Night of Noise event, students spoke out about their personal Day of Silence experiences, and called for respect and support. Many spoke of the loving support they receive from fellow classmates. For example, students from Drury High School boasted 1,024 Day of Silence participants this year.
One relatively peaceful protester stood amidst the crowd of students. During the event, the protester held up a Bible while loudly praying and occasionally dancing. Many students asked everyone to respect her beliefs, and the majority of students ignored her. Also in attendance was Peter LaBarbara of the anti-gay Americans for Truth, who stood at a distance taking pictures.
The event also featured performances by About Face Theater, Youth Pride Center and others.