The month of May hosts the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia on the 17th.  It is a day to raise global awareness of obstacles and victories in LBGT+ rights worldwide. In a press statement made by Secretary of State, Anthony Blinken, about May 17th, he states “[the U.S.’s] work is not yet complete” and “working together, we can create a world that respects and celebrates dignity of all individuals…everyone deserves to live in dignity” (Blinken). Federal and community-based organizations have worked to beat homophobic and transphobic laws and customs. This is the case at MPA, where students are focused on the necessity of a gender inclusive bathroom.  

            Mounds Park Academy exemplifies inclusivity, through both student and administrative led action and awareness. In a collaborative meeting with the Gay-Straight Alliance and Social Consciousness Club, the lack of gender inclusive bathrooms was discussed, and the clubs agreed creating a safe space will reaffirm MPA’s driving force of acceptance. There are two family bathrooms located on campus, however they are not in easily accessed locations nor do they break binary norms. A gender inclusive bathroom with a communal format, open hand-washing stations, floor-to-ceiling doors, disability accessible stalls, and available menstrual products would form both a gender inclusive and private bathroom for the MPA community.  

            This May, coming to meetings to show your support and alliance to the mission will make a difference in current lives and future ones to come. Before the school year ends, more simple ways to support the issue are discussing with peers and educating others. Look out for announcements and emails on updates from Amelia Dickson.  

“On the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia – United States Department of State.” U.S. Department of State, U.S. Department of State, 17 May 2021, https://www.state.gov/on-the-international-day-against-homophobia-transphobia-and-biphobia/.