Dear Fellow Students, Faculty, Staff and Administrators,
SUNY Oswego's Queer and Trans Outreach Center (QTOC) will be hosting events for the Day of Silence on Friday, April 22. The Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network's (GLSEN) Day of Silence is a national student-led demonstration where LGBTQ+ students and allies all around the country take a vow of silence to protest the harmful effects of harassment and discrimination of LGBTQ+ people in schools.
While we encourage SUNY Oswego faculty and staff to support students who choose to participate in the vow of silence, we would also like to make sure that the vow of silence isn’t abused by students as a way to avoid class responsibilities. Students participating in Day of Silence do not need to be excused from participating in important class discussions, presentations, etc. We have advised students to reach out to their professors in advance to notify them of their planned participation and to make alternative arrangements if necessary.
We believe that participating in this national protest is vitally important due to the recent rise in anti-LGBTQ+ legislation and continuing oppression of LGBTQ+ individuals in the United States and globally. If you would like more information on what you can do to support students on this day and in the future, we recommend checking out the GLSEN website and their In-Person and Virtual Educator guides.
Further, please do not hesitate to reach out to us with any questions or concerns.
Thank you for your support and your adaptability,
The Queer and Trans Outreach Center (QTOC)
President - Charlie Lacker (they/them)
Vice President - Ezra Wingard (they/he)
Public Relations & Secretary - Micah Audycki (they/them)