MOCO Pride Meeting, by Zoey P.

During the afternoon of October 18, our school hosted one of many MOCO Pride Craft Events. Among the people in attendance were our awesome GSA (Genders and Sexualities Alliance) sponsors, Ms. Vicente & Mr. Dechter as well as Ms. Astor, MCPS’s inclusion specialist. Though the number of students in attendance was small, there was an awesome sense of community.  Among the many crafts that were there were beading/making bracelets, scratch art, painting rocks/wooden decorations and coloring. There were also many stickers to choose from, all in funny shapes or with inspirational words upon them. 

Ms. Astor, MCPS's Inclusion Specialist

What is MOCO Pride? 

MOCO Pride is a student-led organization within Montgomery County Public Schools that provides opportunities to advocate, connect, and learn for the LGBTQIA+ youth student community. When Ms. Vicente, a 6th grade English teacher was asked why MOCO Pride was important, she stated, “I think it's important for young people to have a space where they can gather and feel honored and valued in who they are.”

Julius West Counselor and GSA Sponsor, Mr. Dechter

How Does MOCO Pride Affect You?

Though Montgomery County would be considered by many a “progressive” county, we still have a history of leaving out, or ignoring the issues that affect marginalized communities. Through schoolwork and JAG presentations, MCPS has slowly started integrating more and more unity and equality. MOCO Pride helps incorporate LGBTQIA+ history into our lessons and coarse work. The organization additionally has been fighting for equal representation and education in the health curriculum.