GLSEN Richmond is a chapter of the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network (GLSEN) which works to ensure safe schools for ALL students in the greater Richmond metropolitan area and Central Virginia.
GLSEN Richmond is most proud of the support they provide to Gay Straight Alliance clubs (GSAs) in their schools. GSA clubs have been shown to be particularly effective in reducing harassment and bullying through student-led peer-to-peer interactions. There are currently GSA clubs in 10 schools in Central Virginia.
GLSEN Richmond has also been involved in local policy change issues and state-wide legislative efforts. Working with other community and religious groups through theRichmond Safe Schools Coalition, they seek the inclusion of sexual orientation and gender identity in the anti-harassment or anti-bullying policies of local school districts. Currently, only Henrico County includes sexual orientation in its anti-harassment policy. They have also worked with Equality Virginia, the Richmond Safe Schools Coalition, and others to help defeat legislation proposed in the Virginia Legislature which would permit banning of GSA clubs by local school districts. HB-1308 in the 2006 legislative session and HB-2868 in the 2005 legislative session both passed the House of Delegates but were defeated in the Senate Education Committee.
Individuals involved in GLSEN Richmond’s Public Education Committee have conducted presentations and trainings for local school personnel and other community groups. This Committee also sponsors informational booths at various community events to increase awareness of issues facing lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender youth in their schools.
GLSEN Richmond is an all-volunteer organization without paid staff, and rely upon volunteers to help us carry out the programs, services, and activities to further GLSEN’s Mission in Central Virginia.