Compassion to me means being kind to everyone regardless of gender, sexuality, ethnicity, religion, etc. Anyone can be effortlessly compassionate and that is the great thing about it. Like love, compassion is unconditional. In recent years, the country has seen a rise in hate towards minorities and other communities because of the political atmosphere. It is important to show others compassion, especially those targeted, to reassure them they are not in this fight alone. Living in a mainly Latino community that is old fashioned, I am constantly exposed to homophobia, racism, and sexism. Entering high school, I believed I should do something to bring positive change to my community, so I joined Gay Straight Alliance (GSA) at my school. In this organization, we support students who identify in the LGBTQ+ community by giving them resources, educating them further about the community, and all around giving them encouragement and love they may not be receiving at home. Freshman year, I was elected as historian of GSA and by senior year I had earned my way to be president of the club. As president, I am in charge of organizing events at school pertaining to the LGBTQ+ community and taking my club to different events around the Los Angeles area that will help them through their experience. The most impactful thing we do as a club is spread awareness of the LGBTQ+ community around campus. We create posters, do announcements, present information to really make our school safe and bully-free. I believe by making a change at my school I can slowly change how my community sees the LGBTQ+ community. |
