The Queer-Straight Alliance will have a three-hour demonstration today for Day of Silence in the quad.

Day of Silence is an event sponsored by the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network.

The National Day of Silence is observed throughout the country by students who advocate against Lesbian Gay Bi-sexual Transgender bullying in schools.

Through their demonstrations, they hope to generate more awareness for their cause.

“Chalk” outlines were taped on walkways throughout the campus with information about members of the LGBT community that are remembered as victims of bullying and hate crimes.

 “Even as we were laying them down, people were stopping to read them,” co-advisor Martha Dixon said. “I think they are tremendously effective in getting attention focused on the hate crimes against persons in the LGBT community.”

The demonstration will occur today in the quad from 12 to 2 p.m. Club members will stage scenes and staff tables with information about QSA and Day of Silence.

At 1:15 p.m., the club will lead a silent march along with any students who want to join.

The procession will progress through the school, onto Viking Drive and Contra Costa Boulevard, down Golf Club Road and back to the Student Union Building between 2 and 3 p.m.

The club will then hold a “Breaking the Silence” party in the Student Union Club Room.

“Every time I hear someone say, ‘That’s so gay,’ I stop and ask what they mean by that. It’s never a reference to homosexuality literally,” Co adviser Lisa Orta said. “I hope the Day of Silence will at least silence the slur and encourage people to really listen to what they are saying,”

Along with Day of Silence, QSA has put together many panels for students who have questions about LGBT issues, including human sexuality classes and Q-and-A sessions.

The QSA also works with the Rainbow Community Center which offers counseling for people of all ages with many issues.

QSA Vice President Keith Montes feels that the group’s aims are very pertinent to the student.

“I want to announce it to the ASDVC board, at LGBT events, and on the student email system, so more students can be aware of the issues,” Montes said.