My letter to the editor, Pride flag indicates a safe space, not a political symbol; student member of Carroll County school board makes us proud, was published in the Carroll County Times on Sunday, April 24, 2022. Full letter below:
I write to congratulate Ms. Devanshi Mistry, student representative on the Carroll County Board of Education, for her bravery, dedication, and steadfastness to justice. Ms. Mistry has served for the past two years and has been tremendously impressive in this role. She is always prepared, speaks thoughtfully, and conducts herself professionally, even while being treated as less than.
Despite not having voting rights, Ms. Mistry frequently vocalizes her support or dissent for board decisions, sending a powerful message to students and the greater community she represents.
Recently, I was present during the discussion surrounding the consideration of a new “flag policy” in CCPS. After a generous donation of LGBTQIA+ rainbow pride flags was made to all schools in the county, some raised concerns that this was a political act. In fact, the intent was to provide flags for anyone who wished to make a small gesture of support for students and staff who identify as part of the LGBTQIA+ community. Displaying a pride flag indicates one is generally respectful and accepting of all gender identities and sexual orientations, and that those who identify as LGBTQIA+ are valued and safe to express themselves and/or seek help if needed.
I listened as most board members bemoaned the presence of the flags as “just a piece of cloth,” “inappropriate,” and “upsetting,” failing to recognize how this framing conveyed an attitude of intolerance. Following the discussion, several citizens made public comments that were not only divisive and downright false — many were truly hateful. After witnessing this display, my stomach and heart are still aching for LGBTQIA+ students and community members in Carroll County.
In contrast, Ms. Mistry respectfully posed clarifying questions, stated she was surprised and disappointed that acceptance of LGBTQIA+ people was even being raised as an issue, and registered a symbolic “nay” vote on the motion to create a new flag policy. While she has held strong to her convictions throughout her tenure as a student representative, Ms. Mistry’s performance at that meeting was incredibly inspiring. I hope she understands how important her voice and actions have been, and wish her all the best as she concludes her time on the board and moves on to an even bigger and certainly brighter future.
– Amanda Jozkowski, Eldersburg
Having served as a student representative to the Board of Education myself, I value the student perspective. If elected, I will pursue full voting rights for the student in this role. Their voice is a critical addition to conversations around curriculum, LGBTQIA+ representation, and other issues facing the school system.
I unequivocally support LGTBQIA+ students in our school community. For parents and family members of these kids, I know these conversations are deeply personal and go far beyond the topic of flags. If you or someone you know is in need of crisis intervention resources, please find an extensive list of support hotlines here.
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