In a heartwarming turn of events, St Ursula’s College in Kingsgrove, NSW, has reversed its controversial policy barring same-sex couples from attending the school’s formal event. The decision comes after an online petition, initiated by Abbie Frankland, garnered nearly 4,900 signatures in just one week.
Abbie Frankland and her girlfriend, a year 12 student at St Ursula’s College, had been eagerly anticipating the formal event scheduled for November 9th. However, their excitement turned to disappointment when they discovered the school’s no-girlfriend rule.
Frankland’s impassioned plea on Change.org swiftly caught the attention of the school, leading to a reversal of the discriminatory policy. The decision to lift the ban was celebrated by Frankland, who expressed her joy at being able to attend the formal.
“We hope that our story can inspire others to challenge discriminatory policies and practices wherever they exist,” Frankland wrote on Change.org.
Federal Education Minister Jason Clare also weighed in on the matter, urging the Catholic school to reconsider its stance and exhibit “a little bit of common sense.” He emphasized that it’s 2023 and no one should face discrimination based on their sexuality.
As the federal education minister, Clare holds significant influence over the funding Catholic schools receive, contributing to about 60% of their annual budget. With this victory, it becomes clear that advocates for LGBTQ+ rights continue to make progress in dismantling discriminatory practices within educational institutions.
This positive development not only ensures a memorable formal for Abbie Frankland and her girlfriend but also sends a powerful message of inclusivity and acceptance to LGBTQ+ students across the country. It is a testament to the power of activism and advocacy in effecting meaningful change within our education system.