Gay Straight Alliance (GSA) Network
Centre for Sexuality is proud to host and support a growing network of students, schools and community organizations that strive to create safer spaces for 2S/LGBTQ+ students and staff.
The network provides support, training, project funding, school visits, networking and more to people involved in a GSA, or those who want to start one. To learn more, click here.
What is a GSA/QSA?
School-based groups are student-run with teacher support, and work to create safe, caring, supportive, and inclusive spaces for 2S/LGBTQ+ students and their allies. Different groups go by different names, but some common names are Gender and Sexuality Alliance (GSA), Gay Straight Alliance (GSA) or Queer Straight Alliance (QSA),
They provide a safer space for students to meet, socialize and support one another as they discuss their feelings and experiences related to sexual orientation and gender identity.
GSA’s can work in three key areas: support, education and advocacy. Bill 10 allows students at any school in Alberta can start a GSA at their school. There are over 100 schools in the Calgary area with a GSA.
Apply for GSA Project Funding
Every GSA can apply for a grant up to $100 twice per year to use towards any initiatives or projects in their schools or communities, or for building skills of students in the club. Submissions are reviewed on an ongoing basis, click here for the application.
Network Meet Ups
Meetings for students happen once per semester where students can network, make friends and learn about what other GSAs/QSAs are working on. There is always free pizza! Students, teachers and community members are welcome at these meetings. A Teacher’s Space at the meet-ups will be provided where GSA sponsors can also network, share successes, ask questions and access support.
Upcoming Meet-Ups:
Different schools will be hosting the network meet-ups, we will post those details soon!
Being part of the GSA Network was a quintessential part of my high school experience.
“When I was at meetings, not only did I feel comfortable being myself, but I also felt that my voice, thoughts and ideas were being listened to and taken seriously. I met many fantastic people from across Calgary and made many long lasting connections. As someone who was very involved with my high schools QSA, it was fantastic to see how other people across the province were running theirs and the different initiatives and projects they were leading. This lead to a spread of creativity that helped influence our schools QSA for the better.”