Have you ever wanted a safe space on campus where you’re free to be yourself? A place where you not only have the opportunity to meet a community of people like you, but also students who have different backgrounds and identities? GSA is here for you. 

   GSA (Gay Straight Alliance) is a student led organization whose mission is to create a more accepting community, regardless of one’s sexual orientation or gender identity. 

   Last Friday on September 6th, the GSA had their first meeting in Room 4222. Vice President of the club Amy Chung (12) described it as “pretty nerve wracking because LGBTQ can be considered a taboo topic and it’s something that a lot of people tip-toe around.” 

    Chung explained how the organization plans to reverse the stigma by carefully educating others on topics such as LGBTQ around the world, history, and discussing the depths and complexity of the community. She hopes that by doing this she can help other students who might be struggling with their identity or just need a safe place to express themselves. 

   Club member Abby Padi (9) enjoyed the first meeting, stating, “I’m looking forward to meeting new students with the same interests as I am. There aren’t many kids who are LBGT allies.”

   The discussion on LGBTQ+ rights has recently arisen because of the controversy between who is protected under the workplace discrimination law. 

   Section Title VII in the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prevents employees from discrimination on the basis of sex, color, religion, and race. 

   “Well, of course I personally don’t like discrimination in the work place because being queer isn’t something we are able to control, contrary to some beliefs,” Chung expressed, “…and LGBTQ issues have been around for a very long time — since ancient civilization — and it became an issue during modern society. So, I would like the work place discrimination to end and have those against the LGBTQ try to see it from our perspective.” 

   The case’s outcome will have a significant impact on the LGBTQ community. But nevertheless, the GSA will continue to support their group and fellow members. 

   As a final message, Chung said, “I hope that people realize that we are a serious club that is addressing an issue that is pretty big in the world right now. We just want to help those like us. And anyone interested in learning about the LGBTQ community should come check us out!”