Lots of schools have an anti-bullying policy to protect students from name-calling and harassment. So, why do phrases, like “that’s so gay” and “faggot,” often go unchecked in schools? This kind of rampant homophobia in so many schools can lead to tragic results.

Eleven-year-old Carl Walker-Hoover hanged himself last week after students persistently bullied him in school. Carl was harassed daily and was often called “girlie,” “gay” and “fag,” according to his mother. Check out the video below for a CNN report on Carl’s suicide:

It’s ironic that Carl would have turned 12 on April 17th—the same day as this year’s Day of Silence (DOS). Thousands of students are expected to participate in this year’s DOS, a day to bring attention to anti-LGBT name-calling, bullying and harassment in schools. If you want to stand up and fight discrimination, then be a part of DOS: Wear red and remain silent throughout the day, unless called on to participate in class. Your silence will send a message that homophobia and LGBT discrimination has to stop.

Are you a single teen who sees couples at school and wonders if being a couple is better than being single? It’s National Unmarried and Single Americans Week, and we want to set the record straight on being single!

Myth: You’re the only person not in a relationship.

That’s just not true. People live a huge part of their lives as singles. So why worry about it? You have the rest of your life to think about finding a partner.

Myth: You’re single because there’s something wrong with you.

Finding someone you’re compatible with takes time and, for some people, lots of dates. Just because you’re not in a relationship doesn’t mean you’re messed up. It just means you haven’t clicked with someone yet.

Myth: You’re unhappy, miserable and lonely without a partner.

There are millions of happy, single Americans living life to the fullest every day. If you’re feeling especially sad and lonely, a relationship won’t make those feelings go away. Talk to a mental health professional if these feelings persist.

Myth: You’re incomplete, and a partner makes you whole.

If you believe this, then you’re definitely not ready for a relationship. How can you start a healthy relationship if you think you’re somehow broken? Get into a relationship because you like the other person, not because you can’t be alone.

Myth: You’ll be home alone on Friday nights. You have no life if you’re single.

Woe is me! A quiet night at home isn’t a bad thing. Why sit by the phone waiting for it to ring, when you can pursue a hobby or make plans with your friends.

Don’t forget: Whether you’re single or in a relationship, not having oral, anal or vaginal sex is the only way to totally protect yourself from unplanned pregnancy and STDs.