New GSA in Upstate NY

My hometown paper, the Albany Times Union, has a great story about a new gay-straight alliance (GSA) that was recently formed at an area Upstate NY high school. And it looks like it is starting with great success: "As many as 40 people have shown up for group discussions and sometimes just general socializing."

GSA's not only promote tolerance within their schools, but they also provide a sanctuary for students to be comfortable with themselves in an environment that may otherwise be hostile. As the story points out:

Other students have found a sense of solidarity in the club.

"I've had a couple of kids come out to me since I started the club," said Shoup. "It helps to have that security."

There was a GSA in my school when I went to high school. And while I did not regularly attend the meetings, it was always nice to know that there were allies in the school with me.