OUT in Our Schools

For 14 years, One Voice has tackled the problem of bullying and homophobia in our communities by performing OUT in Our Schools, a series of educational outreach concerts at inner-city schools in the Twin Cities.

Our goal is to present positive role models of GLBT individuals and to challenge the stereotypes that often lead to bullying in our schools. Over the years we've been extraordinarily successful (reaching over 5,000 students to-date!) and helped build understanding and respect across differences. We invite you to be part of this important project.

A 2009 National School Climate Survey revealed that 85% of GLBT students in Minnesota were verbally harassed in the past year due to their sexual orientation or gender expression and 19% were physically assaulted.

In Minnesota last year, there was a 72% increase in assault against GLBT individuals and a 325% increase in harassment. One in four youth that come out to their parents is kicked out of their home.

Among youth, bullying and name-calling related to sexual orientation are serious issues. One Voice has tackled this problem by performing concerts in our public and private schools. Music builds bridges, enhances communication, and dispels myths and stereotypes. Your financial support for our OUT in Our Schools program, helps create powerful artistic partnerships that connect students with creative, caring adults—some of whom just happen to be gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender.

“Our concert with One Voice provided our students a real life opportunity to take a stand for justice. We teach peace and ethics every day. The collaboration gave our students a unique opportunity to walk the talk. Most importantly, having raised a son who is gay, I was fully aware of the collaboration's tremendous potential for good in the lives of young people.”
—Dr. Karen J. Rusthoven, Principal, Community of Peace Academy