By: Neval Mulaomerovic
October was recognized as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer (LGBTQ) History Month by the Milpitas Unified School District (MUSD) Board of Education. The resolution was passed by a unanimous vote on Oct. 9, 2018 to celebrate the accomplishments of LGBTQ people in history.
As LGBTQ History Month, October would be centered on spotlighting the contributions of the LGBTQ community and supporting the acceptance of all students in the district, according to the resolution. This is part of a broader effort to promote inclusion and diversity in school curriculum, the resolution stated.
“All students deserve to feel safe and welcome in their schools and to see themselves represented in the curricula,” the resolution stated. “California Education Code prescribes that the history-social science curriculum include ‘the role and contributions of both men and women, Native Americans, African Americans, Mexican Americans, Asian Americans, Pacific Islanders, European Americans, LGBTQ Americans, persons with disabilities, and members of other ethnic and cultural groups, to the economic, political, and social development of California and the United States of America, with particular emphasis on portraying the role of these groups in contemporary society.’”
Board members support the rights and freedoms of all students in the community, according to the resolution. The board’s actions are in line with board policy 5145.3, which requires schools to provide a safe learning environment with equal access and opportunity, the resolution stated.
“The Milpitas Unified School District Board of Education and MUSD staff wish to recognize the experiences of our students and staff by adopting resolutions that give voice to our rich diversity,” the resolution stated. “MUSD Board Policy requires safe and bully free schools, and nondiscrimination in school programs and services. This resolution demonstrates that we support all of our students and staff members.”
This is a step in the right direction, Junior Mahika More said. All administrators and school officials should make an effort to promote inclusion in our schools, she said.
“I think it’s really cool that our school board takes the time to officially advocate for acceptance in this way,” More said. “It’s really important for students to feel welcome.”