Moorpark College’s newest club, the Gay-Straight Alliance, offers students a place to interact, confide with others, and participate in activities with both gay and straight classmates. Club Advisor and Psychology Professor Sally Ponce-O’Rourke realized the need for a gay-straight alliance club after learning that many Moorpark College students did not have the supportive environment that they needed.

“A lot of students who would come and talk to me would be bisexual, gay or lesbian and didn’t have anyone they trusted and could talk to,” said Ponce-O’Rourke. “Our goal for the club this year is first to build a base, and then get people comfortable talking to each other.” The club gives students a place to socialize with other classmates and meet new people.

The club is welcome to all students, regardless of sexual orientation. “It is about having an alliance with the gay and straight community and embracing diversity,” said GSA Club President Brooke Stone.

The club offers an opportunity for the gay and straight community to work together and participate with each other in various activities. One of which is speaking out in opposition of Proposition 8 by walking around door-to-door where club members will educate and talk to people about the proposition.

The club is also planning an upcoming sign waving event and movie night. If students are interested in joining, the club meets the second Monday and fourth Tuesday of every month in HSS 205.