Good morning, Netizens...

Most teenagers I have witnessed are a bunch of chatterboxes, constantly talking about their hectic social lives, the latest trends or the unfortunate minority discussing continuing education once they survive High School. Teens these days typically have lots to say, although sometimes it is difficult getting them to talk with parents and educators.

Except today.

It's as controversial as anything else teen-agers do these days, and undoubtedly will raise havoc with some school district rules and regulations, but Gay/Lebian students may be honoring today as a Day of Silence, an event meant to highlight the silence gay students say they often must maintain at school. There is even an article in today's Seattle Times featuring a student who was part of the original protest held in 2006 which gives you the basic background of the observation itself: http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/localnews/2004372675_lequia25e.html

According to the promoters of this event, over 200 schools will be observing the Day of Silence, despite high-visibility protests against the gay and lesbian lifestyle in various places throughout the state.

In the Seattle Times interview, several churches have indicated they will protest outside the schools involved in the Day of Silence, although it remains to be seen whether the protesters will be silent for long. On the other hand, some parents and community members who support the Day of Silence say they'll gather before school and stand quietly as students arrive, although I would wager they probably will need earplugs to avoid hearing the protesters.

I would also hazard the guess that the gay/lesbian students' actions by remaining mute probably qualifies as an activist form of courage or bravery, for it has always been my finding it is always much easier to remain in the status quo than it is to buck the tide.

Of course, your thoughts may differ.

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Dave

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