May 3, 2011

>Stars Support Safe Schools at the Women Who GLSEN Event in Malibu

>Earlier this month, with a warm ocean breeze coming off the Pacific and a picturesque pink hued Malibu sunset, GLSEN supporters gathered for the Women Who GLSEN event honoring the ladies of “The Talk” for their support of GLSEN’s safe schools work.

Sara Gilbert and Leah Remini were in attendance to accept the award, along with a number of celebrities who spoke to the need for safer, more inclusive school environments that are free from bullying and harassment. Some of them included Jeri Ryan, Sela Ward, Katey Sagal, Jonathan Del Arco, Louis Van Amstel, Clementine Ford and Charlotte Ross.

CSI-NY star Sela Ward introduced honoree Sara Gilbert of “The Talk,” who modestly accepted the award with fellow host, Leah Remini, explained why she feels so passionately about changing school climates for LGBT youth, and her support for GLSEN.

“I grew up in a time where I thought I had to hide, and I know kids feel that way, and I know kids are afraid to go to school everyday … I almost feel funny accepting an award. I think it is just such a privilege to be able to reach out and try to help people going through this every day,” Sarah said.

GLSEN Student Ambassador Leticia Ortiz, a senior at Rialto High School, also spoke at the event about her work as a student ambassador. Leticia did what few students her age ever imagine being able to do; she walked the red carpet, posed with celebrities, and was interviewed by reporters about her involvement with her school’s Gay Straight Alliance (GSA). What did she think about this entire experience?

“It’s unbelievable. I really can’t believe I’m here. I mean, look around. This is a surreal moment for me,” Leticia said.

You can check out some of the red carpet action here:

To support the students in your community, visit SafeSpaceKit.com and purchase a Safe Space Kit for your school. You can make a difference in the lives of countless students for years to come. Help us improve school climates and make schools safer for all students, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression.

Special thanks to the host, Pepi Kelman, all of those who came out to support our safe schools efforts, and to those behind-the-scenes that put this event together. We couldn’t have done it without you!

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.

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>Stars Support Safe Schools at the Women Who GLSEN Event in Malibu

About Elizabeth Free

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