The Hastings Senior High has a number of clubs to get involved in during the year. One club is Gender Sexuality Alliance, GSA. GSA is currently run by history teacher Ann Mays and is helped by the president of the club, Will Hinderks.
In some schools, it might mean gay-straight alliance but the founder of GSA, Kaila Avent, wanted to open up the limits of who joins the club.
“She (Kaila) wanted it to be more inclusive than just gay or straight, she wanted it to include all genders across the spectrum,” Mays said.
GSA is on its third year with varying members. Mays has said GSA is very welcoming to anyone who wants to join and support their cause with a safe space to be free.
“They want to make sure that there is a safe place for all students no matter their gender identification,” Mays said.
As time goes by, Mays hopes for many things in the club. She wants students who are having issues with their gender identity to have a safe place to open up and find support from others.
“I also want GSA to serve as a place for people who are straight to serve as allies to their classmates so that those people understand that they are supported,” Mays said.
GSA is planning on having a pride week, November 26 through the 30, in the library and cafeteria after school for anyone who wants to participate.
“We’re going to have a mural painting activity, friendship bracelet making activity, an ice cream social, and a few other events throughout that week,” Mays said.
GSA members meet after school every other Friday in Mrs. Mays room 160.
“Each year we try to add something new and build slowly over time, everyone is welcome,” Mays said.
