Queer and here: Huron Rainbow Rats
Members of Huron’s Rainbow Rats, lead by Kristin Kubacki (top right) color, print pins with various LGBTQ+ symbols on them.
November 7, 2021
The Huron Rainbow Rats is the school’s QSA, or Queer-Straight Alliance. Queer-Straight Alliances are places for people of any sexual orientation, gender identity, race, religion, etc., can come together and discuss LGBTQIA+ issues.
“We’ve been talking a lot about just queer and trans issues, last week it was nation coming out day, so we shared coming out stories, and today we’re going to be making pins,” Junior Ava Kunath said.
“The main purpose of this club is to be a safe and welcoming space for LGBTQ+ students at Huron,” senior Maggie Watson said. “We do some fun activities, like the pin-making we’re doing today. We may end up doing some more projects to improve the school community for LGBTQ+ students later in the school year.”
Watson went on to detail what elements the QSA might focus on for improvement, such as asking administration for a gender neutral bathroom in the 6100 wing.
“This is for anyone who wants to learn or feel safe in this environment, not exclusively for LGBTQ+ people,” senior Miran Bogedain said. “Honestly, its a queer straight alliance, so anyone who feels like they want to learn about the community or learn how to be a good ally [can come]. In my mind if they come with the intention to learn and not argue, and to better themselves, they should be welcome to hear about our experiences.”
