For transgender and gender non-conforming students, schools can be a particularly unsafe and intimidating environment. They often face even higher levels of harassment and violence than LGB students, and as a result may end up missing more school, receiving lower grades, and feeling isolated and not part of the school community.
Gender and Sexuality Alliances, sometimes referred to as Gay-Straight Alliances (GSAs), are school-based groups that provide visibility, safety, and social support for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) students and their allies. GSAs help students connect with peers and establish a strong community. That community can help support students and keep them safe in the face of harassment, as well as advocate for a strong and supportive school climate. There are more than 4,000 GSAs in schools nationwide.
For more information on GSAs and how to start them, check out these guides: