Gay Straight Alliance
Many kids struggle through high school. Students are constantly striving to find a place where they can belong, where they can be themselves. It’s especially hard to be openly gay in high school. Today, people are becoming more supportive of gays, lesbians, bisexuals, and others, but it’s not accepted by everyone. The newly revived club at Placer, the Gay Straight Alliance, provides a place for students to be able to express themselves and get support from their fellow students.
There are many clubs on campus at Placer High School, but none are quite like this one.
“The Gay Straight Alliance is not just a club; it’s a place for like-minded supporters to be able to talk and be together. The club is open to everyone, not just lesbian, gay, bisexual, and questioning,” stated senior and GSA co founder, Connor Soejoto.
The club started by Hayley Hanley. “I was approached by someone I knew and respected. She had an idea for a senior project and I thought it was a great idea to have on campus,” stated teacher and advisor of GSA, Christie Dyer.
“I was in it at Del Oro and I thought it was a good idea for a senior project. I think it will provide a place for anyone to come for support,” stated senior and GSA president, Hayley Hanley.
The Gay Straight Alliance, or GSA, is an organization that brings students together and provides a safe environment.
Many things go on in the meetings. “We discuss upcoming events, current events, and we watch the ‘It gets better’ videos on youtube. We talk about our lives; I have shared my personal life, and we share stories. We also are trying to have campaigns on campus,” added Hanley.
“In meetings we plan activities and give each other support. We want to represent the club in a positive way and increase the number of members, stated GSA advisor Christie Dyer,
The club has had no trouble gathering members and now GSA has over 30 people. “We are starting out strong,” stated Dyer.
GSA and its members have many things they wish to accomplish. “We want to have a lot of fun. We want to model acceptance no matter what people’s differences are. No matter what, everyone is accepted,” stated GSA advisor Dyer.
Some students have a hard time fitting in and finding a group they like. Many students need the support of others to find their true selves.
Members of GSA are making a voice in our school. Members find it important for student to be equals and for there to be a completely safe place on campus where they can go. GSA meetings are every other Tuesday at lunch and every other Thursday after school. The meetings take place in room 402 in front of the Auditorium.GSA is a support group that accepts all people. Don’t be afraid to go drop by to one of the meetings.