Gender Sexuality Alliance Groups and Supports
Role of groups within schools:
Bluewater District School Board (BWDSB) is committed to providing a quality education for every student in a safe, accepting, and caring environment. Gender Sexuality Alliance (GSA) groups are essential to BWDSB’s ongoing commitment to supporting diversity, equity, and inclusion and, more specifically, 2SLGBTQI+ students.
‘A growing body of research confirms that the presence of a GSA has a positive and lasting effect on student health, wellness, and academic performance. It can also protect students from harassment based on sexual orientation or gender identity and improve school climates for all students in the long-term.’ (https://gsanetwork.org/what-is-a-gsa)
Each school in BWDSB is encouraged to establish a GSA group where norms are established that ensure a safe and accepting space for all students.
Below is a link to guidelines used by GSA group advisors:
Guidelines for Discussions
How do I support my child or student?
Whether it is in the home or the classroom, adults play a key role in a child's development as the ongoing and consistent ally.
School Mental Health Ontario has released two articles that will assist adults in their role of supporting 2SLGBTQI+ students.
Your Role as an Adult Ally
Caring Adults: Supporting2SLGBTQI+ Youth During Difficult Times
Where do I go for support as a 2SLGBTQI+ student?
Firstly, find out if there is a Gender Sexuality Alliance group in your school and attend.
School Mental Health Ontario provides numerous resources to support you, the student:
LGBT Youth Line
Provides peer support services by and for 2SLGBTQI+ youth through online, text, and phone platforms (operating times available online)
Online chat: https://youthline.ca/
Text: (647) 694-4275
Email: [email protected]
Kids Help Phone
Provides free, 24/7 support and counselling
Website: kidshelpphone.ca
Text: CONNECT to 686868
Call: 1-800-668-6868
If you feel safe doing so, look online for 2SLGBTQI+ virtual and in-person spaces you can access. Check out YouthLine or Kids Help Phone for lists of services.
Resources
Finding 2SLGBTQI+ resources in your community:
https://resources.youthline.ca/
https://kidshelpphone.ca/resourcesaroundme