April 21 marks 'Day of Silence' to combat anti-LGBT hate

The annual 'Day of Silence' on April 21 allows people to combat anti-LGBT hate and bias. It started in 1996 at the University of Virginia, where two students had to come up with a form of nonviolent protest for a course. The phenomenon became widespread throughout college campuses nationwide with the help of the Gay, Lesbian, & Straight Education Network (GLSEN). Eliza Byard, the Execute Director for GLSEN, said that this year the nonviolent protest comes at a very important time for LGBT youth. Eliza Byard (GLSEN Executive Director to NBC) Byard said that the 'Day of Silence' shows the world that queer individuals will continue to stand together and protect one another.