Ava Kreutziger, a high school student in New Orleans, was deeply affected by the passage of legislation that could impact LGBTQ+ students like her. Although those bills were vetoed, similar proposals are now under consideration under a new Republican governor. These bills aim to regulate students’ pronouns, the bathrooms they can use, and discussions of gender and sexuality in the classroom. In response, students at Kreutziger’s school decided to take a different approach by performing a play based on their own experiences on the steps of the state Capitol. The goal was to spark more empathy and create a platform for their voices to be heard.
The mental health struggles of queer students were highlighted, with statistics showing that they were four times more likely to attempt suicide during the pandemic compared to straight students. For students like Kreutziger, the legislation being proposed is seen as a matter of life and death. The play, titled “The Capitol Project,” was a collaborative effort that came together with the help of a grant from the It Gets Better Project and the guidance of Broadway director Jimmy Maize. Through this creative expression, students were able to reclaim a sense of power amidst the political and cultural battles surrounding LGBTQ+ rights.
State legislatures across the country have been considering numerous bills targeting the rights of gay and trans individuals, with Louisiana being no exception. Proposed bills in the state would restrict schools from using a child’s preferred pronouns without parental permission. Louisiana state Rep. Raymond Crews, who authored one of the bills, argued that the debate over pronouns is a distraction from learning. However, opponents believe that it is essential to respect and affirm students’ identities in order to create a safe and inclusive environment for all.
During the performance of the play on the steps of the Capitol, only one lawmaker took the time to stop and watch for an extended period. State Sen. Royce Duplessis expressed concern that such legislation could drive talented young people out of the state, questioning how they can expect kids to stay when laws show a lack of care and support for their well-being. The final scene of the production featured a poignant dialogue between a mother and her child, emphasizing the importance of standing together and fighting for the rights and respect of LGBTQ+ youth.
Through powerful storytelling and emotional performances, the students were able to convey the struggles and triumphs of their lived experiences as LGBTQ+ individuals. The message of unity and resilience resonated as adults and children in the audience repeatedly expressed their commitment to stand by the youth every step of the way. The play served as a call to action for lawmakers and community members to prioritize the well-being and rights of LGBTQ+ individuals, emphasizing the importance of empathy, understanding, and acceptance in creating a more inclusive society.
