How inspiring that more than 200 Vashon High School students showed that discrimination doesn’t belong in their school on Friday, April 17 — the national Day of Silence. By choosing to be silent in support of those who feel silenced, these students sent a loud message that day: that harassment of any kind because of someone’s gender, sexual orientation or personal identity choice is unacceptable.

Walking the halls of the high school at lunch, it was clear that even those who could not commit to a day without words were supportive of their peers. Many who chatted in classrooms or were seated in rows in hallways wore stickers emblazoned “supportive.”

What a powerful word — and message — to send to those who may before have felt silenced because of their identification with a nontraditional gender or orientation.

We’re glad that high-schoolers on Vashon set the record straight on April 17, and said, loud and clear, that all should be accepted as they are, no matter who they are, on this Island.

Bravo to those who took part in the Day of Silence, for you are leagues ahead of many. May your support speak volumes wherever you go.