H.S. gay club rejects name change

OKEECHOBEE, Fla., Nov. 15 (UPI) -- Members of the Gay-Straight Alliance at a Florida high school have refused to settle a lawsuit against the school board by changing the club's name.

The group sued the Okeechobee County School Board last year, claiming it should be allowed to meet on Okeechobee County High School property. The board argues it is a "sex-based club" and allowing it to meet at the school would violate a Florida law requiring schools to teach abstinence and "heterosexual marriage."

Robert Rosenwald, a lawyer for the American Civil Liberties Union who is representing the club, said that the name change is unacceptable to his clients, The Palm Beach Post reported.

"The students have made clear the name of the club is important to them because it describes their mission," Rosenwald said. "From the beginning, the purpose of this club has been to prevent harassment and discrimination

against gay students."

A judge has ruled the club can meet at the school until the lawsuit is resolved.