What is QSA? (Queer Students and Allies)
Gay-straight alliances (GSAs) and queer-straight alliances (QSAs) are peer support networks that promote welcoming, caring, respectful and safe learning environments for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) students and their allies.
A GSA/QSA is run by students and supported by school staff and would be grounded in the principles of promoting:
- equity for sexual and gender minority students
- safe, caring and inclusive spaces for all students
- healthy, respectful environments and relationships to prevent or eliminate bullying and discrimination
As peer support networks, GSAs/QSAs help LGBTQ students overcome feelings of isolation and alienation that are a result of homophobic and transphobic bullying. They help students begin to feel empowered as they develop a sense of belonging in their school. GSAs/QSAs also help interested students become allies for their LGBTQ peers and provide a safe place to help understand and learn how to offer support. https://education.alberta.ca/gay-straight-alliances/what-is-a-gsa/
When: Mondays at Lunch
Where: Rm. 2007
Who: All students who identify on the spectrum or are allies and want to learn
Teacher Advisors: Ms. Tiemstra