Gay-straight alliances (GSAs) and queer-straight alliances (QSAs) are peer support networks that promote welcoming, caring, respectful and safe learning environments for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ+) students and their allies.

But misconceptions about what they do and who they’re intended for stoke opposition that may make students, teachers and school administrators hesitant to support their creation, despite the legislative backstop provided by Bill 10, which mandates the formation of GSAs in any Alberta K-12 school where students want them.

Growing movement aims to create safe schools and encourage inclusivity

It’s not so strange to find clubs on the campus of any high school.  Students with common interests connect all the time to join groups focused on sports and academic clubs as well as social clubs.

But it’s only recently that students have gotten together to form gay-straight alliances, or GSAs.  Today they’re one of the fastest growing social movements within schools in North America.