Presidents Dom Randall and Madison Setzenfand reinvigorated the once-defunct Penn-Trafford Unified Club this year, increasing membership to over 70 students.
In collaboration with the administration, the district’s diversity counselor, and South Fayette’s SHOUT (Social Handprints Overcoming Unjust Treatment), the objective of the organization is to educate the high school on minority and ethnic struggles, as well as to facilitate an open discussion wherein students can share their own stories to help bring change in the community.
To elaborate, SHOUT is a union of students who advocate equality for all people– the members seek to assist students to build new chapters throughout the region of South Fayette.
Last year, the Unified Club had only five total participants, with only two actively leading activities. After administration reached out to student groups on harassment they face, however, the club has grown to attract several additional student activists.
“We want to [have] cultural experiences outside of school,” stated Randall, a P-T senior. He explained that although the club is organizing field trips for members, the most important and greatest undertaking is a mural in the main school hallway, which will also function as a fundraiser. Current plans entail permanent handprints (a symbol of unity and healing), which faculty can purchase, as well as free temporary handprints which students can stick to the mural.
Assistant principal Amy Horvat was instrumental in the refurbishment of the club. “I felt that it was important to start some sort of group that would help students feel that they weren’t alone,” Horvat stated.
Garnering the support of the administration is one of the principal goals of the organization, as obtaining authoritative support aids in the resolution of harassment. Club leaders have stressed the value of the club as a support network for all students.
“Helping people belong in a school where many believe they don’t belong in” was one of the reasons Randall stated for taking initiative in the club.
The club is careful not to adopt the perception of a self-affirming block, but rather wishes to embrace the diversity of opinions as varied as the high school itself, as long as participating speakers act amicably towards other members.
“I would like [the club] to be a reliable, safe, space for anyone who feels left out, different or someone who just wants to help make it a better student culture at Penn- Trafford,” said Horvat.
Membership does not require students to associate with any particular background or identity, and meeting attendance is encouraged for anyone interested. The club is still accepting sign-ups via an email sent from club sponsor Nicole Burtch or the attached QR code.
The Unified Club is resolved to be more than a diversity club, but an opportunity to learn and meet people who may need support. “We enjoy having everyone of different opinions and differing ideas to create more of a change,” said Randall.