Glossary
Glisten (Formerly GLSEN)
Glisten (formerly GLSEN) is a national education organization that works to make K-12 schools safe and affirming for LGBTQ+ students.
Glisten, which rebranded from GLSEN in early 2026 and was once known as the Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network, is a leading U.S. organization focused on LGBTQ+ issues in K-12 education. Founded in 1990, it advocates for inclusive school policies, supports student-led Gender and Sexuality Alliances (GSAs), trains educators, and produces research on school climate. Its National School Climate Survey, launched in 1999 and conducted every two years, is the largest ongoing body of research on the experiences of LGBTQ+ students in American schools. Its findings consistently show that supportive educators, inclusive curricula, and clear anti-bullying policies improve student safety, mental health, and academic achievement.
Learn more: glisten.org
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