What is a GSA?

At Side by Side, we are dedicated to empowering and supporting school and community programs like, Genders & Sexualities Alliances (GSAs). GSAs are vital student-run organizations that bring together LGBTQ+ youth and their allies to foster a sense of belonging and advocate for the issues that matter most to them.

While traditionally seen as safe spaces, GSAs have evolved into powerful catalysts for social change, addressing critical topics like racial, gender, and educational justice. Our team is here to help create new GSAs and enhance existing ones, providing the guidance and resources needed to cultivate a thriving environment for all members.

Research shows that GSAs significantly contribute to student health, wellness, and academic success. They play a crucial role in protecting students from harassment based on sexual orientation or gender identity, while also fostering a more inclusive and respectful school climate for everyone.

Join us in building stronger GSAs that not only support LGBTQ+ youth but also promote a culture of acceptance and understanding across all student communities. Let’s work together to create positive change in our schools!

Types of GSAs

There are 3 different types of GSAs—all of which can directly impact LGBTQ+ youth: Social, Support, and Activist. Every GSA can create its own mission and goals to meet the needs of its members and the unique climate of their school.

• Social GSAs — Students meet and connect with other trans and queer students on campus

• Support GSAs — Students work to create safe spaces and talk about the various issues they face in school or their broader communities, such as discrimination from teachers or school administrators

• Activist GSAs — Students take a leadership role to improve school climate through campaigns and events that raise awareness and change policies or practices in their schools.

K-12 and Higher Education Resources