How to start a GSA at your school
Start a GSA to provide refuge for LGBTQ students and to help students of all sexual orientations find common ground. The Massachusetts Department of Education offers 10 steps to jumpstart the process:
- Follow the guidelines about forming new clubs as outlined in your school's student handbook.
- Enlist support from the administration as soon as possible. Reach out to principals, superintendents, counselors and others.
- Volunteer to serve as the faculty adviser for a GSA. You don't have to identify as gay or lesbian to belong to a GSA — or to serve as its faculty sponsor. Step out as a gay teacher, or come out as a straight ally.
- Inform guidance counselors and social workers about the group. They can help spread the word to GTLB students and those questioning their sexual identities.
- Pick a meeting place. At first, locate a space that's off the beaten path to provide privacy.
- Advertise. Follow school procedures; put up fliers and place notices in the school newspaper and in TV and morning announcements.
- Get snacks. Provide — and publicize — the availability of food at your meetings. It will give everyone something to share immediately.
- Hold your meeting. Ask: Why are you here? Or, watch and then discuss a film.
- Establish ground rules about what can be shared outside the group.
- Set goals for the future. How prevalent is harassment against LGBTQ students in your school? What can the GSA do to stem the tide?
