August 26, 2010

>Meet GLSEN Student Ambassador Saad Daniari

>GLSEN introduces Saad Daniari, a junior at Plano West Senior High School in Dallas, TX, and one of our talented and passionate GLSEN Student Ambassadors. While each ambassador’s story is their own, one commonality lies in their infallible quest for equality with an optimistic attitude.

“Many youth, including myself, are discriminated against on a daily basis. I hope to be able to correct this problem in the future, because no teenager should have to undergo the stress associated with bullying alongside other school pressures (SAT preparation, etc).”

“I hope to see a future in which people are respected for internal character qualities as opposed to who they are physically/emotionally attracted to and what gender they identify as.”

During our Safe Schools Media Summit, Saad took some time to reflect on his trip to New York City, his short time at GLSEN headquarters, the friends he’s made, and the valuable memories he takes with him.

The day had arrived. Thursday, July 22nd. I was both eager and anxious to see what the GLSEN Media Summit had in store for me. Living in a Texas suburb, I had never really been exposed to so many diverse experiences by gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and queer students. By the first workshop, I had already felt as if I had taken part in a eye-opening experience. The tales of courage and boldness by youth from all over the country astounded me, and for once – I felt as I was a part of a group of people who I truly identified with. We are all unique and different, but we are unique and different together.

On day two of the New York Media Summit, the other GLSEN Student Ambassadors and I were able to listen to country music sensation Chely Wright’s deeply personal and engrossing coming out story. The way in which Chely was so courageous with her circumstances of wanting to put her music career in jeopardy in order to stay true to herself exemplified her bravery and strength. Her narrative was so honest and down-to-earth that it would be nearly impossible not to be moved by her passion.

The final day is approaching and the experience that GLSEN has provided me will stay with me forever. It has been a learning experience, a journey of personal growth, and a haven for diversity. I’ve met people and learned lessons that will never be forgotten.

   

About Elizabeth Free

       

Elizabeth Free is the communications manager at GLSEN--the Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network. Elizabeth joined GLSEN in 2009 to make schools safer for all students and says one of the best parts of her job is working with GLSEN's Student Ambassadors. She is originally from Texas and has a B.A. in Public Relations and Advertising from the University of Houston.