STUDENT PHOTO PROJECT: “FACING INTOLERANCE”
McFarland High School’s GSA challenges intolerance and celebrates diversity through a school-wide photography installation.
McFarland High School’s Gender and Sexuality Alliance (GSA) is excited to announce “Facing Intolerance,” a photo installation art project. Created in conjunction with the MHS theater department’s production of Moisés Kaufman’s The Laramie Project, “Facing Intolerance” will use images and words to allow MHS students, staff, and alumni to share their own experiences with intolerance and prejudice.
Whether due to sexual orientation, gender and gender expression, race, body type, class, disability, religious beliefs, or any of the myriad ways in which people are made to feel excluded, nearly everyone has been a victim of intolerance. “Facing Intolerance” aims to share the stories of– and foster solidarity between– the members of the MHS community who have been made to feel uncomfortable or incapable because of who they are. Their portraits and stories will hang together throughout the school, representing the strength that comes from unity.
“Every student deserves to feel safe in school, and the McFarland High School GSA wants to do everything we can to make that happen. Facing Intolerance is one exciting way we’re supporting social justice and promoting a welcoming school environment,” Sarah Bennett, a student GSA leader, said.
On Friday, January 4th, accomplished photographer Jordan Richmond, a 2012 MHS graduate and owner of Jordan Anthony Photography, will be at the high school taking portraits of those people who would like to participate in the art project. Participants will have their photograph taken and be asked to share their experiences with intolerance.
These images and stories will be used as the basis for school-wide photo installations the last week in January, leading up to the performances of The Laramie Project, which will take place on Thursday, January, 31st, Friday, February, 1st, and Saturday, February 2nd. During the performances, GSA members will be on hand to provide information and resources about promoting a culture of tolerance and respect. The photo installation and all of the performances of The Laramie Project are open to the public.
For more information, please contact:
Jeff Kunkle
English Teacher and GSA Advisor
5103 Farwell Street, McFarland, WI 53558
(608) 838-4500, extension 4734
jeff_kunkle@mcfarland.k12.wi.us
