At LumenSparQ, we are honored to support passionate young changemakers through our Ember Projects, and our latest recipients are nothing short of inspiring. The LMS Pride Club, a group of courageous 6th and 7th graders, has ignited a movement of inclusion and representation on their campus. Though their club name is still evolving, their mission is crystal clear: to create a safe, supportive space for LGBTQIA+ students and allies to connect, learn, and thrive.
The club recently held their inaugural meeting, an experience that proved far deeper than anticipated. While initial expectations were for a lighthearted gathering, the students instead delved into profound discussions about homophobia, bullying, acceptance, and the challenges they face at home. Their willingness to be vulnerable and authentic speaks volumes about the importance of creating spaces where students feel safe to be themselves.
With 14 members in attendance, the group was particularly excited about one aspect of their Ember Project support: books. Representation matters deeply to these students, and the club is thrilled to have access to literature that reflects their identities and experiences. To manage their growing library, they’ve decided to assign one member as the official “librarian,” who will oversee a checkout system for the books. These resources will stay within their club classroom, ensuring they remain easily accessible to members in their trusted space.
As part of this initiative, LumenSparQ has already provided eight initial book titles. However, this is just the beginning. The club members themselves will play a central role in curating their library, selecting additional titles that resonate with their experiences and aspirations. This collaborative approach not only empowers the students but ensures that the resources reflect their unique needs and interests.
Ahead of their first meeting, the students conducted a survey to explore what their peers valued most in the club. Their responses revealed three key priorities:
- Having Fun: A reminder that joy and connection are at the heart of impactful communities.
- Creating a Safe Space on Campus: The club offers a haven where members can feel secure and understood.
- Learning and Socializing: Members seek opportunities to explore LGBTQIA+ culture and politics while building lasting friendships.
They also identified critical topics for discussion, including:
- Addressing Homophobia and Rude Comments: Equipping members with tools to navigate challenging conversations.
- Learning to Express Feelings: Encouraging emotional intelligence and self-awareness.
- Talking to Parents About LGBTQIA+: Supporting members in fostering understanding at home.
This evolving initiative has already showcased the power of youth-driven action and the impact of fostering empathy and representation. We at LumenSparQ are proud to stand beside the LMS Pride Club, offering resources and recognition to fuel their journey.
The students’ dedication to creating a more inclusive community reminds us all of the importance of amplifying diverse voices and supporting one another. We can’t wait to see what this remarkable group will accomplish next!
Stay tuned for updates as the LMS Pride Club continues their Equal-I-Tea journey, including their growing library of books. If you’re inspired by their story and want to support similar efforts, visit us at LumenSparQ.org. Together, we can spark change one Ember Project at a time!