The Gender and Sexuality Alliance (GSA) at Assumption Catholic Secondary aims to create an inclusive and supportive community for LGBTQ+ members and allies through action, awareness and education.
As a Catholic School, we recognize and promote the inherent dignity of all people and believe that each and every student deserves to feel welcome, safe, included, and respected in their school. Fundamental to the GSA is the belief that peer to peer initiatives and support can have a significant impact in creating safe spaces in our school. As a youth led movement we can act as champions for equity and inclusion for all.
Context for the Gender and Sexuality Alliance:
- LGBTQ+ youth often face many challenges that contribute to putting them at greater risk for violence, abuse, isolation, mental illness, homelessness, and suicide. As a student led and adult supported group we foster a sense of belonging within a safe space by having access to other students who may offer support, connection and information about resources and services in the greater community.
- LGBTQ+ youth are approximately three times more likely to attempt suicide than other youth (Kids Helpphone)
- LBGTQ+ youth are more likely to report being discriminated against, verbally harassed, physically harassed or assaulted about perceived gender identity or sexual orientation.
- Studies show that 10% of secondary school adolescents reported being unsure of their sexual orientation (Williams et al., 2004)
Membership and Guidelines
Gender and Sexuality Alliance (GSA) is an official student run – group with lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, two-spirited, queer, questioning (LGBTQ+) and heterosexual student membership. The group is supported by one or two Assumption staff who serve as faculty advisors. Membership is open to students and staff at Assumption anytime of the year.