Glow is North Park’s gay straight alliance (GSA), a club for those in the 2SLGBTQIA+ community and allies. Glow meets every Tuesday during lunch in the library, where members hang out and talk as well as organize events. They arrange announcements for days of recognition, fundraisers for the Glow scholarship, and their biggest project of the year—Pride Week.
Pride week has historically consisted of five days of queer pride themed events, such as group art projects, a photo booth, pin handouts, and more. They make announcements and put up posters to raise awareness about the event. We spoke to a member of Glow who told us, “the announcements and social media posts, Day of Pink, and especially Pride Week, are so important. Glow’s strength comes from being able to represent those who cannot represent themselves, whether it be because of the people around them or their situations or whatever. We make sure we are seen and that those who aren’t out know they are welcomed and safe.”
We talked further with the Glow members about their experience in Glow for which one such member had to say, “Glow is wonderful. I’ve been going since I was in grade 9 and it’s been great seeing it grow from a couple regular folks into the small group of regulars we have now. I’ve gone on several trips like meeting with GSAs across the Peel Board, and it’s been wonderful to see how big the local queer community is. Even here at North Park, like yeah, there’s been people who’ve been nasty to me because of my identity. But I’ve also been able to interact with those who aren’t out and being able to see and talk with us is always great. Seeing them smile makes any of the hate fade away.”
With plans for fundraisers, events, and more throughout this year, Glow is planning to make the 2024/2025 school year their most involved year yet. Glow is always welcoming new members, so if you’re interested, visit the library at lunch, talk to Ms. Parkinson, and make a difference.
THE NORTH STAR 