WAVE YOUR FLAG. The rainbow flag is in representation of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, (LGBT+) pride and community. The traditional colors of the flag is red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and violet, there are many variations of the flag in use today. Gay pride month is an annual celebration in which we observe LGBTQ+ rights. The celebration takes place in June.

SHHHHHHH.The GLSEN Day of Silence is a national event in which students take a vow of silence in an effort to illustrate the silencing effect of bullying and harassment on LGBT students and those perceived to be LGBT. “GLSEN is the leading national education organization focused on ensuring safe schools for all students,” according to GLSEN. On April 14, 2016 more than 10,000 students registered through GLSEN for Day of Silence. To participate in the 2016-2017 school year read the announcement through Sycamore Gay-Straight-Trans-Alliance (GSTA).

HOLA. SHS Spanish teacher MS. Meredith Blackmore is the teacher sponsor for Gay-Stright-Trans-Alliance club as well as He for She Club. She described herself as having a “strong bend towards social justice.” Some of her passions include her dog Diego, Yoga and the Spanish culture. Her favorite quotes are “Be good, do good” and “To each, their own.” “You all have so much incredible and unique potential and you should feel proud and inspired to be the best version of your self,” said Ms. Meredith Blackmore.

MARCHING TO THE BEAT. The pride parade in downtown Cincinnati was a success as the community came to show support. Pride parades for the LGBTQ+ community are events celebrating lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) culture and pride. The events also at times serve as demonstrations for legal rights such as same-sex marriage. The next parade will be on June 24, 2017 at sawyer point.

SAFE. Glesn safe space stickers represent a teacher in the building who has opened their room to be a safe space for LGBTQ+ students who need an adult to lean on. Multiple years ago, Shawn Jeffers from GLESN trained teachers who were interested in becoming an ally. He helped the teachers promote inclusion, equality, and a safe environment for all students.