Ames Middle School students host walkout in solidarity with LGBTQIA+ students

A group of Ames Middle School students showed their support for the LGBTQIA+ community and their LGBTQIA+ peers with a midday demonstration on Wednesday.

A student-organized walkout started outside the school around 1:20 p.m., punctuated by a colorful crowd of students sporting a variety of pride flags and yelling supportive chants.

The students were excited to share their thoughts with their peers. They each talked about their experiences, how to prevent homophobic comments, and how to be more inclusive in the future.

Many students donned their own pride flags and outfits, and other students brought pride trinkets to share with the crowd. Several middle schoolers showed support with a physical embrace.

Celia Brocker is a government, crime, political and education reporter for the Ames Tribune. She can be reached at CBrocker@gannett.com.