“The torch of equality can simply be passed by awareness.” Briana Alford, president of the Gay-Straight Alliance (GSA) said.

AIDS Awareness day, Dec. 1, is a major event for the GSA. “AIDS is a medical concern, not only for the gay community, but for the global community,” Alford said.

      The GSA plans to raise school awareness by making posters, doing announcements, and spreading the word about the threats of AIDS. Though AIDS can sometimes be linked to the gay community, the actual threat of the disease is much more widespread and it affects all groups. “We’re bringing awareness from the outside world into this small town,” president Alford said.

     She said, “The members of this club are very dedicated and passionate because this cause is usually personal which unites our members to connect with all students.”

     “I’m working on becoming more involved in the club, but I’m pretty involved as it is right now.” William Watkins said.

     Alford’s reason for originally joining the GSA was because of a family member. “One of my close family members is a lesbian and she was declined the right to marriage. And I believe in equal rights.”

     The GSA was created to bring students together in a united belief system to get equal rights for all genders and sexualities. Anyone is allowed to join as long as they believe in equal rights. The club meets in C4 on Thursdays at lunch. The requirement for members is to come to the meetings. A meeting will generally include a recap of the last meeting, and then a preview of events and discussion of ideas.

     The GSA is trying to connect with all the groups on campus, to unite the school for the goal of equal rights for all.