COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY

It’s no secret that Gretna East High School is a predominantly white school, with approximately 86% of students identifying as white. Because of this, my commitment to diversity as editor-in-chief of The Wingspan requires intentional effort beyond passive representation. While we actively work to include as many voices of color as possible on staff and in our reporting, much of our diversity coverage comes from highlighting underrepresented groups within our school community.

The slam poetry club, the Bible study group, Hope Squad, marching band, the baton twirlers, Dungeons and Dragons Club and many more get as much of our attention as the major sports and activities do. I would rather miss a story on the “big game” than miss a chance to highlight the important work of a group.

However, when there are real issues that arise in our community, such as incidents of racial bullying, our staff discussed this and immediately reached out to the familes and students affected. In the end, I created a five-minute editorial-style documentary, speaking with black and asian students in my school on how racial bullying has shaped their lives and the lives of young students in the district.*

Diversity in The Wingspan also includes ideological representation. Our staff holds a wide range of political beliefs, and I actively encourage opinion writing that reflects those differences. I emphasize that my staff members should never censor themselves, but rather engage respectfully and thoughtfully with opposing viewpoints.

Through intentional editorial leadership, equitable coverage, and a commitment to elevating unheard voices, I strive to make student media that is inclusive, representative, and impactful, particularly in a community where diversity must be actively pursued.