As trans and queer youth looked to ways to stay connected and continue to organize in a virtual setting, we created a Virtual GSAs in Action page to support them in taking their school-based GSAs online and to continue building a sense of community. Many school activities and clubs were discontinued and unable to survive the move into a digital world. In March 2020, schools across the country closed down and shifted into a virtual space due to the COVID-19 global health crisis. 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. GSAs have evolved beyond their traditional role to serve as safe spaces for LGBTQ+ youth in middle schools and high schools, and have emerged as vehicles for deep social change related to racial, gender, and educational justice.Ī growing body of research confirms that the presence of a GSA has a positive and lasting effect on student health, wellness, and academic performance. Genders & Sexualities Alliances, or GSAs for short, are student-run organizations that unite LGBTQ+ and allied youth to build community and organize around issues impacting them in their schools and communities. Trans, queer, and allied youth building community.
