What is a Rainbow Club?
A Rainbow Club is an elementary school version of a GSA (Gender and Sexuality Alliance).
At the middle and high school level, a GSA provides a safe and supportive place for LGBTQ+ students and allies to create community.
At the elementary school level, these clubs can address topics of family, identity, and respect. They can be a space for LGBTQ+ families, students and allies to connect and hold space for each other. Rainbow Clubs promote a safe, healthy school climate and an anti-bullying message. Find information about creating Rainbow Clubs here.
Concerned About Pushback?
Check out the Federal Equal Access grant (1984). Schools that receive federal funding and have at least one other non-curricular club must allow a GSA.
Read more about the law in this article specific to GSAs from Lambda Legal.
Use this letter from the ACLU to write to a principal/superintendent that is not on board with the formation of a GSA.
Read these Principles for Responding to Concerns from Gender Spectrum for concrete tips and talking points.
For more information, check out our guide for supporting students and educators with links and legal resources.
Finally, use our checklist to see what areas your school could work on to become more gender inclusive.
We have created these slides and used them with our own Rainbow Clubs. Feel free to give them a try whether your club is online or in person. Check back regularly for new additions!