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Vermont Gay/Straight Alliances

WHAT IS A GSA?

A Gay/Straight Alliance (GSA) is a school-based, student-run organization that addresses issues related to sexual orientation and homophobia. A staff/faculty member serves as an advisor to the group and can serve as a liaison to the rest of the administration and other school personnel. GSA's create a safe and supportive atmosphere for LGBTQ and allied youth to discuss their feelings and thoughts about sexual orientation and gender identity. Finally, they help reduce anti-gay violence, harassment, and discrimination by educating school communities about homophobia and heterosexism, and by encouraging a greater degree of understanding between students and school personnel.

There are over 30 Vermont High Schools and Middle Schools and at least 7 colleges with clubs for gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgendered, questioning students and their friends. Frequently, these groups are called GSA's or Gay/Straight Alliances.

Outright Vermont keeps a constantly updated list of Vermont schools with GSA's and is happy to provide contact information for the school with a club nearest to you. In addition, Outright keeps lists of LGBTQ friendly guidance counselors and teachers. 

Each spring Outright Vermont hosts a Vermont Gay/Straight Alliance Conference in Burlington, VT. Our first just happened in late April of 2007. Find our more about it here. If you want info on the '08 Conference contact our office!

Contact Outright's Education & Outreach Coordinator today to get information or learn how you can start or support your GSA! 802-865-9677 or info[at]outrightvt.org