By Caitlyn Turner

You might be wondering what sort of clubs are at Springfield High School. Are there any clubs that align with my set of values and create a safe space where anyone belongs? Well, the answer to those questions is a very enthusiastic Y E S! 

There are a few different clubs that hone in on different social justice issues, but one that means a lot to me and fellow members is the Gay-Straight Alliance, or GSA. This club focuses on creating an inclusive, safe environment while sharing experiences that our Queer community regularly encounters. GSA is a space to relax, grow friendships with like-minded people and provide an opening to people who feel out of place in many situations.

While GSA means so much to our members, we are a small group this year, but looking to expand our membership. I found out that people are not opposed to this group– they are simply unaware of it. 

If you are conflicted at all about joining, let me tell you about how amazing this club is. GSA has helped me in many ways. It has connected me to so many of my friends in ways that have made my life better. It has helped me accept myself and feel less alienated. GSA has also helped me feel more confident in expressing my beliefs and has created a space for me to have the indescribable privilege of meeting and becoming friends with people whom I’d never have met otherwise. I also feel that GSA has helped create a better school environment overall, as we accept everyone with open arms.

Someone whom most of you know, Austin Faires, is a sponsor of this club. He has helped me with many struggles I have faced as a queer high schooler. Mr. Faires feels that GSA has helped queer students here at Springfield High by “giving a space to students that don’t always have a space.” He also says that, “me being a sponsor of this club has made me a safe space for a lot of students to have come out to me and I work with them on how to navigate all of those challenges.” GSA is important to teachers as well as students because it is a place where anyone can share vulnerable experiences and find solutions to problems they may face as a queer kid in high school. 

My fellow senior members and I invite anyone who would like to assist in the continuation of an accepting and supportive community at Springfield High. Our meetings are on Fridays after school in Mrs. Eaton’s room, 366. Some activities we have enjoyed as a group include the Springfield Pride Parade, cookie decorating around Christmas and more recently, we sold beaded animals, bracelets and cookies at tailgate! The club is free to join; all you have to do is show up and be a nice person. We welcome anyone and everyone.

(Courtesy of Deb Eaton)