[link removed]

I am the first Black, nonbinary person to lead GLSEN. It’s a tremendous honor and a responsibility I take very seriously.

But it’s also not the start of my GLSEN story.

When I was three years old I was bullied by a group of older boys. It got worse and worse until one day I decided to escape.

I ran to the corner of the playground, dug a hole, and covered myself with mud.

That’s where my mother found me at the end of the day. She immediately went to the counselor.

And here’s where the story gets better: that counselor took the time to listen and take action. So from a very early age, I experienced what happens when a grown-up at school shows up for you.

That is why the mission of GLSEN is so near and dear to my heart. And it’s a big part of why I wanted to take this job.

Because whether you are 3 or 13 or 18, you should never be afraid because of the color of your skin, who you love, or the pronouns you use.

You should never have to worry about whether talking with a teacher will get your family in trouble. You shouldn’t be scared to go to the doctor for the healthcare that you need.

In my role with GLSEN, I get to hear directly from some of the millions of students in our country impacted by our organization. Echoing in their stories are the stories of generations of LGBTQ+ individuals: experiences of bullying, sigma, and isolation.

John, I also hear stories of the hope, growth, and connection your support helps nurture in this next generation as we write the next chapter together.

In community,

Melanie Willingham-Jaggers
Executive Director
Pronouns: They, Them, Theirs/She, Her, Hers

GLSEN believes that every student has the right to a safe and inclusive K-12 education.
We are a national network working to make this right a reality.

[link removed] [[link removed]]
[link removed] [[link removed]]
[link removed] [[link removed]]
[link removed] [[link removed]]
glsen.org [glsen.org]


GLSEN Inc.
110 William Street
30th Floor
New York, NY 10038
United States
If you believe you received this message in error or wish to no longer receive email from us, please unsubscribe: [link removed] .