As an open-minded person, I support everyone no matter their gender or sexual orientation.

Everyone should accept those who choose how to identify as a certain person or as what they feel is best for them. “People should be more accepting of others because no one has the right to rule over anyone’s life, much less their sexuality,” stated 9^th grader Arlene Galdamez.

As a student at Miami High, I hear a lot of negative comments from some students towards the LGBT community, and it is not fair to them. “One thing that I would change about society is their outlook on the LGBTQ community,” said Junior Class president Ingrid Hueck. “I have many friends who are part of the community and they often feel alienated by others.”

“I feel safe for the most part but I have friends that are gay and lesbian and they have told me how often they are called derogatory terms,” said junior Daymee Sanchez, Gay Straight Alliance (GSA) president.

At MHS, bullying towards anyone is not tolerated and the GSA advisor Ms. Diaz de Villegas states, “Being different does not give others the right to criticize. Bullying is not tolerated, and if any student is experiencing any type of bullying because of their sexual preference, they can come see me directly and I will handle the issue.”

In Miami High there is support for the LGBT community through GSA. “Given that Miami High students and teachers are very supportive and accepting, I feel safe within my community,” said Freshman Class president Carlos Cordova. “I feel like I can be myself here.”

“GSA connects those in need with immediate help. We as a community should fully support everyone no matter their gender identity or sexual orientation,” said GSA 2^nd VP Ariel Trueba.