National Day of Silence at IU

What is the National Day of Silence?

The National Day of Silence is a nation-wide event in April when hundreds of thousands of students come together to take a pledge of silence in hopes of promoting empathy and respect for members of the GLBT community. The community and their allies are silenced daily as a result of anti-GLBT name-calling, harassment and lack of appreciation for their aspirations, goals, and needs. 

Why is the Day of Silence Important?

GLSEN’s 2005 National School Climate Survey found that four out of five LGBT students report verbal, sexual or physical harassment at school and 29% report missing at least a day of school in the past month out of fear for their personal safety.  The silence of GLBT youth and adults can be responded to with a visible display of support and empathy towards those who have felt silenced or are unable to express themselves as a result of harassment.  In order to meet the needs of students and faculty on campus, we are organizing a Day of Silence at IU.  

What will the Day of Silence be like at IU?

This year, we will be handing out t-shirts and taking pledges to be silent on Wednesday, April 14th.  Then, participants will wear their t-shirts on the following day (April 15th) and refrain from speaking.  We will have a “Breaking the Silence” reception, hosted by the CommUnity Education Program, The Savants, and Union Board.  Food will be provided by B-town Menus.  We hope you can join us for both events!

When is it?

This year, the Day of Silence will be held at IU on Thursday, April 15th.  Come pick up a t-shirt at any of the campus locations on April 14th and take your vow of silence.  This vow of silence is a pledge to be silent on the following day.