Gender Sexuality Alliance or GSA is welcoming to all students. They meet in room A312 every Tuesday after school to talk about changes in the LBGT+ community and to help students be a part of the school and also let them know that they have allies in the building.  

Helping the school have a better understanding of this community is a struggle.  Letting people know what GSA is all about and helping non-LGBT+ students understand LGBT+  students is just one of the club’s overarching goals. “It’s raising awareness. Even though we’re being made fun of, it’s important,” said Kai Glass ‘18.

GSA is a club for all teens to interact and meet new people, be they gay or straight. “I feel it’s really important to have somewhere where we can talk about LGBT+ issues, because we don’t always have anywhere else to discuss them,” said Ken McCoy ‘17. “I thought it was really cool the school had a club again.”

While many support the GSA, there is still much controversy among students and parents. “I joined because I wanted to support the rights of everyone,” said 11th grader Kai Glass. “I remember an informational table set up during one of the lunches. There were some younger kids that were harassing the group (at the table) during Ally Week,” said Glass.

“Not all parents or guardians are open to the thought that their child is LGBT+, so do not allow them to participate in the club,” said Mrs. Elder. Multiple GSA members are subject to bullying on school grounds. “When students come to me about bullying, I encourage them to go to their principal or guidance counselor to discuss the issue so that it can be addressed. The administration takes a strong stance against bullying in our school,” said Mrs. Elder.  

“Even being someone who is straight, I can recognize when people are being treated unfairly and I believe all people are created equal and deserve respect,” said GSA President, Sam Tripp ‘17.

GSA hopes that in the future, members will consider joining the St. Louis LGBT+ pride parade and get together outside of school and act as a community by hanging out and doing LGBT+ events as a group.