This year the University of St. Thomas is celebrating the Day of Silence/Night of Noise in support of LGBTQA members of the community on April 10, 2014. 

What is National Day of Silence/Night of Noise?

• The National Day of Silence is a day of action in which students across the country vow to take a form of silence to call attention to the silencing effect of anti-LGBT bullying and harassment in schools.
• In many communities, the solemn Day of Silence is followed by a festive Night of Noise, celebrating the dignity, value and worth of people of every gender and orientation.

Why do we celebrate National Day of Silence/Night of Noise at a Catholic University?

• Catholics believe in the inherent dignity, value and worth of every human being. This dignity comes from the fact that every person is made in the image and likeness of God (Genesis 1:27).  This dignity is not based on my race, religion, creed, economic status, abilities, orientation or gender identity.
• Catholic social teaching emphasizes the importance of solidarity: 

“We are all one family in the world. Building a community that empowers everyone to attain their full potential through each of us respecting each other’s dignity, rights and responsibilities makes the world a better place to live.” Sollicitudo rei socialis – ‘On Social Concern’ (1987)

• The US Catholic bishops urge Catholics to avoid stereotyping and condemning. Strive first to listen (USCCB pastoral letter, “Always Our Children,” 1997).

"****WANTED:**** Open Mic talent for the Night of Noise: Celebrating LGBTQ & Ally Identities at UST event hosted by staff/faculty allies group and other various co-sponsors. (Thurs. April 10th 4-7pm)

If you're artsy in any way--singing, spoken word, instrumental music, poetry, etc.--and would like to celebrate all identities at UST by sharing your talent, please email FemCom Facilitator Morgan Schreurs at schr2225@stthomas.edu<mailto:schr2225@stthomas.edu>. The performance pieces should really be geared toward the event's theme of celebrating LGBTQ & Ally identities and rejecting silence. Thanks!"