Never Say Never: School grants equality to GSAs

On April 20, the Kennewick School Board in Eastern Washington voted to allow Gay-Straight Alliances (GSA) equal access to the school’s public address announcements, and bulletin boards. It may sound like a small thing but it has been a volatile issue for months. There is a Federal law known as “the Federal Equal Access Act” which says what one school group is allowed, others must be given the same privileges. But Kennewick High has not followed this law with some questioning the need for a GSA.

Alonso Ponce, a sixteen year old Kennewick student who helped start the GSA explained, “We need to stand up for the rights and equality of every single student”.  One of the group’s goals is reducing classroom harassment and Alonso explained there is great value on letting fellow students know “just how hurtful their words can be”.

Ivar Husa, a PFLAG dad, attended the packed meeting and recalls –“ I was frustrated with the board and simultaneously embarrassed for them.  There was no way they could avoid complying with the 23-year-old law any longer, and yet they still had a split decision on the motion before the board”

Ivar was disappointed by the resistance of some school board members, “At a previous school board meeting, one board member said it might not be wise to let non-curriculum groups (like GSAs) publicize their activities in the morning report, because hate groups like the Klan would take advantage and use that platform.  I was outraged that he would link hate groups with GSAs. At the beginning of this board meeting, our lawyer addressed the board and told them that schools have always had the right to limit behavior of hate groups on their campuses.  I believe the school board knew that, and only brought the issue up to delay our young people their civil rights.”

Sadie Bauer, a youth who attends Vista Youth Center, noticed and appreciated the positive community support “PFLAG was there to help, along with GSAs from other schools, and people from Vista Youth Center.”

Mark Lee, of Vista Youth Center, said there was a teacher who expressed disappointment about treating the GSA like other  school groups. The teacher has said things about “their gay agenda “and “their real mission.”

Jill Mullins, who recently moved back to her home town, remembers that teacher. “I can’t imagine what it would be like for an LGBT student to know that that teacher thinks such awful things about you, and then believe that they are going to treat you fairly in class.”

“It feels like a huge weight was lifted” said Bauer, “It is nice to see that we’re finally moving forward”. There were many smiles along with some “high fives” after the decision was announced.

A permanent policy will be voted on later this year to keep in line with Federal Law.

When asked what this means for the youth and the community, Husa responded “The kids have their foot in the door, now.  It is up to them to form and sustain these GSA clubs.  I know Vista Youth Center will help find youth and adults to talk to GSA groups. PFLAG will  offer encouragement. Maybe we can help the GSAs to participate in our TriCities Pride events”

http://www.pridefoundation.org/school-grants-equality-gsas/