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If you refuse to change your policy that is one thing but don't punish everyone just because someone wants to challenge your policy. Either hold your position or change it.

it is MISSISSIPPI........WHAT DO YOU EXPECT?

PTL!!! I am so glad that someone has the guts to stand up against this sort of thing. It is about time. It should be done all over America. It is a shame that the other 99.5% has to suffer and I pray that there will be a private prom that the juniors and seniors can attend. PTL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Absolutely wrong - They can't hide their children from reality forever. It should have been accepted but the couple should have been counseled first to make sure they were not going to be out of hand.

When are we going to love our children for what they are?

The kids in school already know she is a lesbian, so what? If she didn't ask prior to the prom and showed up in a tux - they couldn't exclude her because she or her parents paid for the prom. How insentitive is the school board to make a bigger issue out of a prom. These children have feelings too. Just because they are born with this isn't their fault. SHAME, SHAME on the school board.

I think it was a good decision

They were most definately right in doing so. To have the prom, and not allow the lesbian student's request, would have more than likely brought a law suit upon the school board and others. Having a private event organized for the students, would allow them the discretion to admit.

In this day and age! Really? I can't believe that the School Board was so closed minded that they actually canceled the event! They should all be voted off and a new board appointed, one that deals strictly with the administration of the school, not in personal agenda's to denounce sexual preferences! Unless I am mistaken, there is no law against being gay!!!! Permission to wear a tuxedo, do all the girls have to wear dresses and all the boys wear tuxedo's? Oh my, I can't even believe this still happens!!!

Wrong wrong wrong. Why did she even have to petition? Dress appropriately (Tuxedo *is* appropriate formal wear for a prom) and have fun with date of choice. Such a sad, narrow-minded story.

L think the students should have been polled so that they had input into the process. Let us not take away their right to be involved.

I priase the school board for upholding moral standurds and not supporting imorral, perverted conduct. It is not NORMAL . It is against Bible law.It is destroying family values and is not a normal act.This countries standurds keep going into the toilette. What will the next generation be like ? What is the next thing that we are to except....sex with animals? Congrats to the school board !

The school district is in a tough spot here. Caught between the legal right of the individual and Pressers from the community, They took the safe road and canceled the event. The School is not obligated to provide a prom. It's just a tradition. Just like same sex couples are a tradition in attendance. The young lady in question is attempting to break tradition. She succeeded and the only ones to suffer are the student body. All this activism for social change has it's limits. It's the old adage, "Be careful what you wish for. You just might get it."

She obviously never heard the phrase "it's better to beg forgiveness than ask permission."

So very, very wrong. This is 2010, where the rights for All should be reserved and considered. If a perosn loves someone inspite of their gender this is a good thing. I believe that her cilvil rights were violated all the way.

Public schools (and other public/federally-controlled organizations) seem to be subject to the "tyranny of the minority," but concerned private citizens should feel free and motivated to provide socially sound entertainment and recognition to the students of the community.

The school board is so wrong in this case. Canceling the Prom does what here? It shows how un-evolved the minds of our pears really are. People will do what they want, when they want, where they want, rules or no rules. Just how it is, always been that way. Do they think that it will change the girls sexual orientation? Come on! If anything they are toying with an age group that will go against what they are told not to do. Turn the lights on people it is happening all over, it's nothing new. And good for them if they find good companionship in someone that understands them as opposed to someone who degrades them.

The school board is a bunch of pompous asses! They need to get a clue! How would that effect the education process! Maybe the school board need to go to homophobe counseling?

They are just wrong...plain and simple!

No way in this day and age should there be so much made out of a request of this nature. Let's get on with the process of living our lives as best we can. With so much wrong in this world, loving someone is the only bright spot in our day sometimes. Let people live and love and enjoy as much as they can.

The School Board failed to deal with the issue. It seems like they didn't want to allow this girl to come to the dance with a lesbian partner. That won't make the issue go away. Their actions created a bigger problem because of all the publicity.

I wonder if this decision was based on legal advice once they decided not to allow the lesbian couple. Do they somehow think that the girl will be blamed for canceling the prom? No, the Itawamba County School Board blew it. The student body and probably most of the community are aware this girl is lesbian.

I hope the sand was soft when they plunged their heads into it, but hiding their head in the sand is not going to make it go away. They failed the community and the students with their cowardly decision.

"Sorry for the inconvenience" is insulting, arrogant and weak. Their hope that the community pick up their dropped ball strikes me as condescending. Maybe they should erect a great wall around their schools and keep out the undesirables.

I'm waiting for round 2.

They are totally wrong. These students attend school daily. Does this mean the students do not learn anything because they are attending with a gay student? Students are around gays day in, day out and they do move on. The Board is so out of date, it's a whole new century, catch up.

Yes, I think the school and the parents of students who prefer their kids not to subjected on a night that should be considered memorable have a say so. I do not agree with same sex marriages, or dating for that matter. Since it is the "thing" that has everyone in an uproar, they should have a prom some where else that others may be comfortable.

The truth of the is that the gay girl was probably the one that was goig to make a show out of this and cause trouble. If she truly wanted to come to the prom and bring a friend and even wear a tux, she should have just showed up and kept her mouth shut. I'm sure the board decided that they didn't have enough police protection to cover the prom, because this girl was going to make a scene out of this and once she did, the show was on.

Shame on that student for trying to force her own socio-political beliefs down the throats of everyone else. School Board members are elected officials. Maybe if more of our Elected Officials throughout Government would stand up for the rights of the majority instead of constantly trying to be "Politically Correct", we wouldn't have half of the economic and social problems we face now. These School Board members should be applauded and not ridiculed for standing up for the majority IN SPITE of the fact that the majority in this case were not of voting age.

You no like in Uganda! Or yea, let's put their parents and friends in prison. For a progressive nation...we are so behind in the realm of common sense. Wake up word...we are not in Kansas any more! Nothing wrong with two kids going to the prom and having fun no matter what sex they are!

This is a perfect example of the cowards running that school. Instead of taking this opportunity to do they right they they ran and hid. I am sure the school has no problem with their students bringing college or older dates but god forbid they bring someone of the same sex. I was taught god loves us all equally and that he doesnt pick and choose. These people on here use the bible to spread their hate like the taliban uses the koran to do they same. Take a close look at yourselves people befor you pass judgement on others.

It's time we let them... No... encouraged them to secede.

It's too bad that the Prom is being cancelled,Ms. McMillin actually accomplished what she set out to do that was to put the school board and the school in the position to address her sexuality. I don't know why anyone sexual persuasion is the business of the school or the world. If you sleep with women that's your private business same with men. Consenting adults in the country have that right. Girls have beening going to the prom together since forever. Why did she have to ask permisson, I am sure there are a segment of girls going alone, together and in a group with no problem.If your gay keep your sexuality and your sex life to yourself, Americans already share to much of their private business with the world.That goes for heterosexuals as well. Just keep your bi8g mouths shut, who really needs to know??????????????/

Are they crazy? Kids attend school for so many years and the ultimate is the junior/senior prom and you are taking that away from everyone? You think by having a prom in a different location is going to fix anything. Do they honestly think by ruining this dance for every member of the student body that this is going to fix anything? I don't agree with this.

IF the school board had said, " sure, no problem".... no one would have ever heard about it. 2/3rds of the parents, and kids would have not even noticed. The kids police themselves... this girl goes to the same school, same classes, day in day out, the other kids know all about her and will treat her accordingly to their beliefs.... this is a case where the adults should shut up and stay out of it.

The decision of the school sets them up for a possible future lawsuit.

The school board made the right decision. It is ok to have community norms founded on moral principles that date back thousands of years. These school board members obviously believe the practice of homosexuality is morally wrong, and they made a decision based on their convictions for the good of the community. Praises to them.

The Prom should have gone on as scheduled. It's not fair to all the Straight kids who may have to go without because of a couple of social mitfits. We have made homosexuals so comfortable with their anti-social behaviour as to where they want to flaunt it now. There was a time when the tried to keep it to themselves, as they should have.
The Prom should have gone on and the policy inforced at the door! Turn those away who tried to violate the policy!

Are you serious, in this day and age? Everyone has the right to be who they are. God I remember when inter-racial dating was such a huge issue. As someone commented, on her trying to force her "Socio-political beliefs down everyone's throat" was that really what she was doing, or merely just asking to bring along someone who makes her happy, who she obviosly just enjoys being with? I love people who make the choice to take the "moral High ground" all the time. Glass houses, we are all creatures of this Earth, isn't it tome we just accepted each other and live our lives in peace and happiness, after all we only have ONE life!

I believe that we are all trying to teach our children that no matter what people should not discriminate others for any reason. This is teaching our children just the opposite. It is outrageous. I am a mother of 2 (9yrs. & 16 yrs.) & and a public school employee of 15 years. This puts all of our diversity training and teaching to shame.

I am 63 yrs of age and have successfully raised both a boy and girl. I think that there should not have had to have been a Petition to the school board at all. I believe that if the peers were acceptable and tolerate of this teen's sexual preference throughout their education time, then it never should have reached/received the attention given. In "a hunard" years will it have mattered??? Self expression is a part of growing up, it is a shame that one has to petition for ones freedom of rights.

That kind of decisions only prove the homophobia in the schools and the doubts about what´s mean "to be gay". We need a open and smart world with teachers an public leaders that understand the differences in the people and no discrimination for ethnic, social, gender or sexual orientation.

The school board was totally wrong and they should all be fired.

I think it is better to stop the whole thing than just stop her. Just like marriage, if same sex couples can't have marriage rights than nobody should have those family rights.
Of course it would have been great if they could have just let her bring her date and wear whatever she wanted. They could have introduced the idea of diversity and acceptance in Mississippi!

First if there was a legal issue with our wacky laws now on this subject. Yup I would have voted the same way. These issues are ridiculious to say the least.

Our Founding Fathers stressed the importance of the separation between Church and State. It's the First Amendment for god sake. Religion should be practiced at home and church. School is a place for open minds and open hearts not hatred and intolerance.

The board should be asked to resign since they are stuck on an issue that does not really concern them. Where has the freedom to express oneself in America gone?

Oh get a grip, this in 2010 and as long as the parents of the teens are okay with it why not. Let's wonder why gay teen sucide is up. The school should be teaching acceptance not hatered.

I agree with their standing up for their principles. I won't go into the right or wrong of the social position here. But I think they are right about not needing the hassle, spending or distraction of a prolonged fight over it. Better to let the community host it and determine what it wants.

I feel the school board was wrong.. Shame on them for trying to force their own socio-political beliefs down the throats of everyone else. School Board members are elected officials. Perhaps it is about time people start remembering that and try to find people who are open minded..as to their statement about it " Due to the distractions to the educational process caused by recent events".. that is a double edge sword and they might want to be careful that they do not fall on it them selves.. after all those who are of the non christian faith can alwasy list there own complaints.. if my son or daughter can not ware their pagan pride shirts.. then why can someone else ware their WWJD ?? yeah we go through it a lot here in the bible belt.. its about time that the school board's and others wake up.. remind them of that bible they "claim to follow" Christians are explicitly told not to judge others, but to leave the judging to God. We will ourselves by judged by the standards to which we hold others. "Judge not, that ye be not judged"...

I beleive this is a clear case of discrimination and certain people that made the decision not to sponsor the prom should be set straight by a higher authority. There are laws against discrimination and why would'nt they apply in this case? Mississippi, land of "Hell Fire and Brimstone" religion. I can't imagine the emotional harm this caused the young girl. This is a great story for the Today Show.

What is the problem with sexual preference? So what if you don't agree that is why this is called the USA. So that we can be free to express ourselves. First it was the African American, now it's the Arabs and the White Americans want to unite with the Blacks now. They hated us before now they expect us to be their 'friends" this is the same thing with the Gay Community. They don't like same sex relationships so they condem them just like they did to the Blacks, Jews etc; this county is should hold it's head down in shame. Please practice what you preach America

The school board made the right decision. It is ok to have community norms founded on moral principles that date back thousands of years. These school board members obviously believe the practice of homosexuality is morally wrong, and they made a decision based on their convictions for the good of the community. Praises to them.

I THINK IT WRONG TO CANCEL THE PROM BECAUSE EVERYONE SUFFERS AND ARE NOT ALL GUILTY, I THINK THE COUPLE SHOULD HAVE BEEN BANDED FROM ATTENDING OR AT LEAST FROM DRESSING UP AS A MALE AND FEMALE COUPLE, BECAUSE AFTER ALL YOU NEVER KNOW WHO'S GAY OR STRAIGHT ,IN THIS CASE THEY WERE OPEN & HONEST.

No where in the constitution is mentioned the separation of church and state. You need to read it.

Sounds very much like some dealt with the "threat" of integration. "God forbid black people at our party. It might rub off on us." = "God forbid lesbians at our party. It might rub off on us."

Interesting how vulnerable these officials feel. I wonder why.

I agree with Mike. The school doesn't need the Hassle. No Prom, No discrimination. That's what you get when the Minority try's to Control the Majority. The School Board has a right to do what they seam right for the Majority, if you don't like it Vote them out of office.

The school board is to be commended! Makes my heart sore and gives me hope -- not just for heterosexuals but for human beings' divine potential. I cannot think of a greater burden to bear than that of not being able to love the opposite gender. But evidently it is a burden not only developed in some cases, but given by our FATHER in some cases. If those bearing such a burden could realize it for what it is they would understand the great faith their FATHER has in them to OVERCOME (which is what we all came to do.) There are many out there doing so. Oh, if they could speak out, but that is very difficult for them. It can increase their already great burden to beyond bearing. But we who know, as the Itawamba County School District Board, can lovingly hold the reigns on "calling a spade a spade." For to do otherwise makes it much more difficult, if not impossible, for these dear brothers and sisters to overcome. We all have our "things" to overcome. I believe GREAT HONOR will come to those who overcome such a painful burden. We can help them . . . and not by giving in to their demands.

You did not state your last name so you obviously do not stand by your (badly written) words. If you paid attention in school to language, history, math and other subjects, read books instead of the Bible you'd know homosexuality has been around for many centuries. Just because there are more heterosexuals, it does not mean homosexuals are animals. The Bible should not be waived every time you cannot use reason to argue. As to the school board, I hope they will get sued for discrimination. This is America after all, where she shouldn't even have to ask. The less of a deal we make about it the less of a deal it becomes. Let's concentrate our attentions to healthcare rather!

I beleive the school board did the right thing. Our children does not have to be exposed to that at schools, we as parents teach our children thats not how God created us, and for them to go to school and see that. Thats where the school board comes in.

How can anyone have a comment without knowing what the ( distractions in the past ) were. Maybe someone threatened the couple with bodily harn in the past and the school board did not want to escalate the problem. Don't you all think its time we look at people for WHO they are and not WHAT they are?

the problem seems to be private agenda, by individuals...the girl should have simply arrived at the prom in whatever attire she appropriate...not announce or ask permission...her agenda was to bring attentin to herself...it has worked...question? what has she gained???

I believe the students should have been allowed to vote on this.
Whether they wanted same sex couples to attend or not. That way there
shouldn't be any complaints one way or the other.

Great decision by the school board.

It's to bad to see that in 2010 we still have ignornat people in this counrty. What is the problem??? As with any dance/prom all the girls dance together anyways, so what's the difference if they go together as a couple?? Mississippi,school oficials should be ashamed, get with the times and quit making you're teens feel like they have something wrong with them...Love is blind of color, race or gender..The "Senoirs" have earned the right to go to their prom by passing 12 years of school...Don't take that away from your students..!!!

What a show of intolerance. "Oh no! Someone wants to cme to the prom with a date and they are BOTH girls!! The world will end! Time will stop! What can we possibly do?? We will hve to cancel the prom and punish everyone for this girl having th temerity to be who she is and bring to the prom someone she likes. What does she think prom is? A function for the students to bring as dates people that they like? What cheekiness. Throw that girl in jail!"

Those school administrators should all be fired and sued for violating this girl's civil rights. Two girls attending the prom together is not illegal, and girls did it at my prom many years ago, albeit as "just friends" though who knows? Narrow minded bigotry leading our schools is bad for our future.

Is Mississippi so backward that it does not realize that gay and lesbians have a right to their freedom.
First it was blacks now it's gays. What's next? Grow up Mississippi or find another country to be part of.

If, the "FATHER" as you call it/him created these girls this way, why is there anything that needs to be "overcome?" Perhaps the "FATHER" put these girls in this position to teach you to get off your high horse and judge not lest ye be judged. The girls are acting within the nature that God designed for them. Apparently he designed your nature to be bigoted and intolerant. Hopefully another part of the nature of these girls is to ignore the words of those who cannot see that they are harming no one.

Good for the school board to take a stand on the issue. Lesbians aren't born that way. Homosexuality isn't natural and is a sin in the eyes of God. Too bad the other students had to suffer for it. If they had allowed this to happen then some dude should have shown up with a goat spewing that same discrimination garbage. The difference between race or ethnics origins is that they "were" born that way. God doesn't make mistakes. If homosexuality was natural then God would have made a way for them to reproduce.

I agree with Joseph E. What's wrong with wanting to provide a traditional prom for the whole school? I'm tired of people shoving their political correctness down my throat.
Hooray for Mississippi, the School Board, and the moral laws in the Bible!!!

"Lesbians aren't born that way." Then I guess you weren't really born a heterosexual. It is just something you learned while you were growing up. That is the most ridiculous thing I have ever heard. People don't choose who they like and desire - it is hardwired into us. And who says homosexuality is a sin in the eyes of God? The Bible is a book writen by men thousands of years ago and transated dozens of times to reflect what the ruling parties wanted it to say. Relying on it is like relying on quicksand to build your house foundation.

As for your contention that "God would have made a way for them to reproduce" have you never heard of in vitro fertilization or surrogacy or artificial insemination or adoption? What a specious argument.

bless heart...her individual agenda should not be rewarded...get over yourself, girl

does ever persons personal agenda need to be addressed...hey mel...what next?...blondes...short people...8th graders...where will it end?

Absolutely, its too bad that because of a few the majority have to suffer.

This is a lose – lose situation. The School Board did what it had to because it is Mississippi and law suits. No matter which side you are on look at NIV, Luke 6:36-37. Whom am I to say what is a sin in the eyes of God -- I am just another sinner. I feel for the kids that will miss their Prom, unless some parents get together and set it up. Constance is not going to change by this decision and I hope the other students don’t hold it against her and retaliate.

I think what the school board was out of line to cancel the prom . This is something that you can havwe only one shot at in ones life time ! And what about the rest of the kids you are punishing the innocent ones also !!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Grow the hell up !!!!!!!!!!! There is alot more going on in this world to be worried about ....... let god be the judge of that when the time comes .

I think that they were wrong because by High School graduation these people are young adults and ready to go out and find out about the world. Most are familiar with sex by that time, so seeing a lesbian couple isn't going to turn the straight girls into lesbians.

Couple of thoughts . . . why was this even an issue before the school board. Did the student create the issue by petitioning the school board? We don't know from the report. It is implied the memo is a reaction to the student's petition. If the student wanted to create a stir to further her cause, then she has been successful.

And frankly, the school board should be commended for sliding this non-educational debate off their table.

Second, why is prom a school function. Sending the prom to the private sector makes a lot of sense. Our local schools have done that for grad parties and middle school "continuations." Makes sense to shift prom and other non-educational functions out of the schools, especially in today's tough economic times.

I think that the school board is over reacting what the problem this is discrimination and I hope the student sue's the pants off the school board

Absolutely wrong! I don't even understand why the young woman had to petition the school or school board for permission to bring a date or to wear a tux.! This is not in my mind any different than the one time issue of dating across racial lines. Our young people need support to be themselves, and to be kind to one another, and this is an example of intolerance & exclusion.

WRONG! People need to get off their high horse. There is one and only one true judge which is God Almighty. Get your noses out of everyone's personal business and when it comes time to stand before God and account for our life's decisions (and we will each have our time someday)we will answer to God for those decisions...be it choosing to be a lesbian, or someone who thinks they have the right to judge everyone around them! I think they are going to be a lot of surprised "Christians"....

That is ridiculous! Gays can legally marry now, so what is the big deal? I consider that bigotry.

Right or wrong it saved countless from getting knocked up.

Once again, someone suggests that you can "choos(e)to be a lesbian..." If that were the case, why don't some of the straight people "choose" that? If that is all it takes to be sexually attracted to someone of the same sex, then go ahead, be a lesbian for a day, or a week. While there are plenty of people (probably the vast majority of humanity) that have some degree of bisexuality, saying that people are choosing to be gay or be a lesbian is simply ignorant.

Question: Do you think the school board was right or wrong in canceling the prom in order to avoid having a lesbian couple in attendance?

Very wrong. Why penalize all the jrs and srs by canceling their prom because the school board can't face the prospect of two girls dancing together. Most of the kids wouldn't have a problem with it. But some of their elders just don't get it - homosexuality is a fact of life. They should just deal with it - without trying to impose their views on everyone else.

PLeeeeeeeeaZZZZZZe! give me a break Leave these people alone.If this girl is 18 years old as the article states then she is old enough to pay school taxes and have a say as to whom she wants to take to her prom. the last time I checked in this country you can wear what ever the hell you want. If you doubt that just pick up any rag paper at the checkout at any supermarket in america and look at what the so called Popular people are wearing.The school is way out of line and full of some IGNORANT (so called professionals) Im the proud father of five children and as straight as they come. But I believe you have to let poeple be whom they are. so get your head out of your A** and grow the hell up.

Not so Davis I dated a girl in HS that left her man and 2 lovely daughter for another woman and lived Lesbian live style for about 10 years. Now she dicided she is no longer one and has returned to men. Put that in your pipe.

Good for the school board to Cancel it.

Peggie not in TX they can't.

We have a culture that, like the foolish Emporer (new cloths), is going along with empty foolishmess in order to appear wise (go figure). We need "little boys" to speak the obvious. To cancel a dance for all based on the sexual confusion of a few is foolishness. It's time for more people to speak up and say this.

Gay women are fine at the prom, gay men,no.

This is great!! Finally someone with the courage to stand up for what is wright and moral. Great job Itawamba County School District!

The education department should replace the school board with people with some common sense. In my opinion the school board should not punish all of the students, because they can't decide on a solution to one girls sexual preferance, and then pass the problem (?) to the parents. This is as stupid as in the past when schools would try and stop left-handed students from being left-handed.

Are you kidding me!!!!!!!!!!! Get real Mississippi. I feel sorry for all of the children in that school district that have to attend a school that is so narrow minded. Do Africa Americans date "white folk" in that state???????? It is 2010

PEOPLE IN GENERAL JUST NEED TO GET OVER THE FACT THAT THERE ARE GAY PEOPLE OUT THERE. AND PEOPLE THROW A FIT BECAUSE ITS ALL OVER RELIGON, BECAUSE THE BIBLE SAYS ITS A SIN. WHO CARES! LIVE YOUR LIFE AND GIVE THEM RESPECT LIKE ANOTHER HUMAN BEING. I CONSIDER THIS AS BEING RACIST BASICLY.GAY PEOPLE ARNT ALLOWED TO GO TO A PROM WITH THE SAME SEX AS A DATE? COME ON NOW THATS RIDICOLUS. REALLY STUPID AND THIS IS COMIN FROM A GUY THATS STRAIGHT.

What a tempest in a teapot! If the school board thinks that the students are not completely aware of Young Lesbian's sexual orientation, they are whistlin' Dixie. And if you think abaout it for a minute, what's the difference in YL coming with her 'date', and two girls coming with each other instead of going alone. Not everone has a date for the prom. Read Greg Iles' "The Quiet Game" if you want a shocking picture of Mississippi's narrow-minded approach -- both historically and currently.

What manipulative behavior from a school district. Are the administrators themselves high-school age? They should be ashamed of themselves---inciting an entire senior class to resent the gay student by canceling the entire prom. The girl had to PETITION for permission to be herself. Isn't that bad enough?

I am mixed as to what would be the best course to take. However, as a Christian and realizing that our guidlines for moral character as well as our laws were founded and given by God before man started amending them to justify mans character, I have to follow God's word. 1 Thes.5:22. Rom.1:24-32 etc. These two young ladies need serious counceling and I pray they get it. However, it's really unfortunate that the MAJORITY must suffer this fate because of just two. Mr Monamara, God created Women for men and men for women thats why you are the proud father of five! Of course name calling "IGNORANT'and sarcastic language such as "get your head out of your A" and grow the hell up" can't help the five be to proud.

Definitely wrong.
I'm 57 - when I was in high school many people didn't get to participate in a formal prom because they either couldn't afford it, or didn't have a "date". In recent years, it has become much formalized and less traumatic in many places. Singles go, friends go, three people together, two girls, two boys - whatever. And, dress is less regimented. Much better. A good time for all.
Why can't others have their own beliefs and let others have theirs?
It's just a prom. Sad.
If you are a Christian, act accordingly. And, allow others what you expect for yourself.

Don't you people get it yet? Counceling won't help a bit. It is not a choice. If it had been, do you think we would have chosen this route. How about God = Love. How about not judging? Why don't you just let God deal with us? How pure are you?

Homosexuality is not an vialbe alternative lifestyle. It has proven to be destructive and leads to confusion and hoplessness. Suicide is high amongst the gay community. Homosexuality robs the opportunity for pro-creation thus canceling the command to be fruitful and multiply. This is counter productive and subversive towards the character of the Lord Jesus Christ. The Father created man for woman and woman for man. He is Holy and homosexuality is in direct violation of His Holiness..

What happened at the board meeting that they decided to cancel rather than give a yes/no answer? Likely there were some who were in favor of letting her come or at least that you could not discriminate and those with traditional values refusing to make a compromise and said if this is what is going to happen, there can be no prom.
That is likely how it went. I would be in favor of saying marriage is between a man and a woman and that the prom in upholding these values declines the request. But in a group meeting the group has to come to a decision as a whole and not being able to do so, this is how it went. The girl was obviously trying to make a statement to promote same sex marriage.
The problem is that the board was likely split and some were in favor of her attending which led up to the cancellation. If this was the case I'd cancel before setting a precedent allowing it.
They may have had advice from council saying this was a way to avoid a lawsuit and if that is the case shame on them for not standing up and saying no.

As I said quite clearly, the vast majority of people are bisexual to some degree. The woman you dated clearly was too. So no need to put anything into my pipe to smoke - that is unhealthy.

I think the lesbian caused the problem by asking if she could bring her partner. She should have gone on to the prom and taken her friend, and probably no one would have thought much about it. However, she obviously purposely made an announcement to cause an uproar. Some people will do anything to get attention

For my friend to be or not to be was a choice, her L friend was such a freak that when we wanted to visit, we hadn't seen each outer for 10+, I was married w/child to visit while I was home on leave we had to meet in a public place, and she had to be in an position,watching us as a distance. How insecure is that?

I don't think that the schoolboard should have cancled the prom, just refused to permit the lesbian to attend. Why should the enitre Junior and Seinor class be deprived of an important event!? Hope57

Do you really believe that high school seniors do not know of this girl's sexual preference? I bet they have discussed it thoroughly. Why don't you give them an opportunity to vote on it?

Constance McMillen never should have petitioned to bring a same sex date to the event. (Nobody gives a shit you're gay). She should have just gone to the prom with her date in a tuxedo and left it at that. The school board should have done nothing!

I believe the school did the right thing if the girl was set on bringing her Lesbian Date, and the school couldn't band them from coming, so they just canceled it. I would also make sure everyone in the school knew why it was canceled, so they wouldn't be mad at the school. If the girl wanted to bring her Date, she should have been quite about it.

I'm getting tired of hearing stories of schools not getting used to the idea of the changes in society norms , some day no one will be disturbed by this type of life style;it has cost us hundreds of skilled people in the military ( not counting the training costs that were wasted) by this attitude!

COMING FROM SOMEONE WHO IS STRAIGHT: this is the 20th century come on we all know that there is lesbians & gays out in public -why make such a big stink if the girl would have just gone & not made such a big to do no one would have thought anything about it for the classmates probably already knew she was lesbian & i've know of proms where even the straight girls went to the dance as a group because they never had a date as well as boy's and all were straight maybe she just wanted to make a statement for her self & be in the public eye. It was wrong to cancel the prom for that reason if that was the only reason. WAKE UP AMERICA !!!

The school board is WRONG!! Society is changing and it is in the schools where we should see leadership. This is silly. What detrimental effect can this young woman have on anyone else? I assume the partner she would be bringing is a consenting adult like herself. She is not asking anyone else to follow her lead. The school leadership(?) should be ashamed and if another independent prom is organized, one would hope that it is boycotted.

J Paul Muxworthy

So this is akin to having a filled stadium to watch a school football event, seeing that one of the players on the visiting team is non-white and stalking off with the ball to sulk. "We're going to play somewhere else with our ball." What kind of hate-crime pressure has this decision placed on Constance and her date? What are the thug jocks and airhead cheerleaders at that high school saying in the two girls' faces about losing "their" prom. It's the South so probably an incestuous brother and sister wouldn't have caused a reaction.

Come On! Get real! This is America. Gays and lesbians are everywhere! Deal with it. It's not going away! If I was those Girls I would take it as far as the Supreme Court. Sue girls sue!

honestly..... i dont really care, i dont live in mississippi, and im not being affected. there are more important things in this world to worry about than having a prom cancelled.

Constance was apparently not nearly as interested in bringing her gf to the prom as she was in making a statement and challenging the school's authority. If she just wanted to bring her gf, she should have done it and it is doubtful anyone would have said a word. But instead of doing that, she did something else. She decided to make a statement and challenge school authority (which is a totally different issue from bringing her gf). By throwing down a challenge to authority, she virtually guaranteed a refusal and prom cancellation. What if the school had said "OK"? Then they would have had everyone else excoriating them for supporting homosexual "rights". The school did the right thing.

I don't care what they do, but I"m sick of in "your face" with all this crap!

Quite blaming the girl for challenging school authority - the ACLU made it clear that any policy banning same-sex dates or tuxedo wearing by a female at the prom was DESCRIMINATORY and therefore ILLEGAL.

So a bunch of old, wealthy, conservate, bible-beatin' white folks said "EFF it", just cancel the whole event if we can't have our way. Is it fair to blame the girl? Probably, but for every ounce of blame anyone gives her they should give a POUND of blame to the school board for being ingnorant and old-fashioned instead of letting the kids have their prom.

I was reading the news on yahoo home page and they are saying that the ACLU got in it and told the board that the girl had the right to wear the tux and same sex prom dates. The board's reaction was to cancel the prom. Had the ACLU stayed out of it probably threatening legal action the board may have deal with the matter locally possibly denying the request. This adds another dimension to it.


http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/us_lesbian_prom_date

This country needs to wake the h_ll up and quit sitting on their laurels and letting the "Minority" to make the rules.
The school bd needs to do what it right for the majority of students. They should hold the Prom and have security to not allow the function to b disrupted by any minor circumstance. Public schools have policy fir the general publics benefit and welfare in mind. The students "earned" the dance. Don't mass punish all based on one instance. Any students not following the rules should b punished; not the masses.

Cliff notes: hold the dance and have security remove anyone disturbing the event with disciplinary action including expultion. Make it clear nothing will b tolerated.

In time these human beings will be able to fit in the human society, I don't look at it as a big deal, let people be people, let them be free and normal. Cancelling the school event is cruel to all, and that just tells me that someone is very prejudices, and being in a school setting it should be understanding. Cancelling the event isn't going to stop them from being in love or together. Try understanding people before you judge them.These school edjudcators have to much free time on there hands.

Every Student male or female has the right to attend the class prom, having said that there would have been no one the wiser if they had just gone together. Girls have danced with each other for years and years.The Tux would be a problem though. This is what HAPPENS when you take GOD out of the schools and everywhere else!!!!!!!

HAVE YOUR CAKE AND EAT IT TOO. WHY LABEL YOURSELF? GO WITH FRIENDS, DRESS AS YOU WANT AND STOP ADVERTIZING WHERE YOU SLEEP.

I AGREE WITH THE SCHOOL.

HS Proms are for the Kids to have Fun and Celebrate. Girls have been dancing with girls for eons so what is the big deal? They are not having sex at the Prom so who cares if they are gay ? Did anyone ask how her classmates feel about the issue? Let the kids have their Jr - SR Prom like the school board members did when they were in sdhool and do not worry about who is dating whom!

I nearly had the same situation way back in 1984. In my case, my High School Sweethart was too afraid to go with me to Prom. Too afraid because some people are so insecure in their own sexuality that they strike out at anyone they see as different, as a threat. I am sad that 26 years later this is still happening in our great country.

To any young people reading these comments, please know that you may be isolated, but you are not alone. It is sad that a few body parts and pieces of clothing will likely stop an entire class of students from experiencing a traditional right of passage.

I got lucky in that a young man who turned out to be gay took me to our prom so we were both able to experience an fun night with friends.

The Jesus I know si open and accepting. He is not as concerned with clothes as he is with good deads. I pray for all of you angry people. Find peace in your hearts so you will have the capacity to extend love to all those around you.

Peace to us all.
Tyler

It is not right to deprive a whole school because the school board does not know how to handle this request. The student is of age and it is unlikely to have been a surprise that she is attracted to someone of her own sex. At least she did ask, but perhaps that is because this school makes everyone seek formal approval to bring along a friend to this dance.

They now have to decide where they go from here. Wherever it is, it is certain to be unpleasant for them.

If this story makes you hot under the collar, then you need to mature a little and realise that it is inappropriate for you to impose your notions on the rest of the world. A better country than this would not have invaded Iraq. Go figure.

Live and let live. If you are big enough to do it.

Here in Mississippi, the only thing worse than a lesbian couple would have been a bi-racial couple! Of course, none of our schools would cancel prom over that would they? Wait, a school in the delta did just that a couple of years ago using then same reasons and there was a private, non-colored prom? Well, I guess anything to appease the decent (read good christian, lilly-white) people of Mississippi. Seems like we have the subject of a movie sequel, Prom In Mississippi II.

come out of the cellar Mississippi this is the 21st century the students already knew her sexaul preference so what is the reason for cancelling the Prom

I think that the school board acted out of fear more than out of concern for the juniors and seniors. Because of the way the moral police are saying that it is not right but wake up america!!!!!

If her parents have no problem wtih her preference the school board has no right to interfere with her choice. The school board canceled the prom completely to stay out of federal court on discrimination charges. As one of the other responders said of course this is Mississippi( WHITE, RIGHT, AND MORAL) ha ha ha.

It's like our government-punish the many for the sins of the few,I'm totally against same sex marriages,but their are times when we have to let our children judge their peers,Ithink they should have had a democratic solution the this problem----voting is our GOD given right-don't take it away from the kids it IS their future!Let them decide!

Homosexuality is a sin and should not be condoned. I think the school should have allowed the prom to go on as planned but not allowed the homosexual couple. Why should the other students be punished for doing what is right? Take a stand for "right". That's the problem with the world today. We let "a few" that are in the wrong spoil it for those of us who are "in the right". It's called "right" because that's what it is!

So two girls have never gone to a prom together?

They were very wrong and merely showing their ignorance of gayhood. How Christian is that? Jesus did not discriminate from those who were different. Rejection is hurtful and so unnecessary. No wonder our teenagers are beoming more violent in our schools. Acceptance is the key to success in life. If you cannot promote acceptance in your home, church and schools, don't be surprised at the next violent outburst from our young people. It makes me sad. What is it going to take for people, especially our educators, to learn to lead instead of imposing their conformed values of unaccepting gay people?

That's funny, I thought this was the good old USA where we tolerated other people's differences. The school board's job is to help educate students, without prejudice towards one's race, gender, beliefs, etcetera. These students are getting an education alright! The lesson here is: rather than deal with an issue in a responsible, forthright manner, let's pull the plug on the whole thing and then we won't have to worry about it. What a copout and a disservice to all the potential prom attendees.

Would that many people have really been bothered by a gay couple at the prom? I seriously doubt it. Personally, I was having too good a time with my date and my friends at my prom to have ever been bothered by a same-sex couple. We probably would have taken a second look at them back then, but we would have been respectful and would soon have gotten back to concentrating on the person we were with. Isn't that what the prom is all about anyway?

When I read this article I was very disgusted to think that discrimination is still alive and well.I can not believe that they are punishing the other kids for what they feel is immorale. When I really think about how wrong this really make me mad.This is not the way to handle these situtions by punishing the whole school. This will only make these occurances more prevelant that every before. Discrimination is still ugly!
Love is love with whomever your choice is male or female.

I believe it is irresponsible for any institution trusted with the job of teaching our future leaders and caregivers to promote intolerance and ignorance on any level. These are the future leaders/outlaws of our communities. Which way do we wish to push them? Towards understanding and embracing our communities differences, or fearing and lothing them? Fear begets hate, hate begets violence, violence begets...you fill in the rest.

Yes, I think it was a smart move to cancel the prom considering what was being pushed upon them. Just as any other two friends, the two girls could have just come together and had a good time. They made their needs more important than their peers. They obviously need more attention than what is necessary at a prom. The prom is for celebration not for making statements. I wonder if they were being coached by someone.

I think it was terribly wrong and they are teaching hatred, close-mindedness, and non-acceptance to the students by such rude behavior. These are kids. Why punish them? They are taking away something very important to so many of these kids.

These ARE just kids. They may not even be gay. Let them wear what they want to wear and two girls go together. Why not? Who cares? I know 65 year old women who dance together, even go TO dances together, and are not gay. A kid I saw grow up had a female "Best Man" in a tux at his wedding. It was great. No one was gay. Who cares? We are not to make judegments, just to LOVE.

I think that it was wrong because what if they didn't come out and say that they were gay. Then it would have been considered a high school prank for a girl to be wearing a tuxedo. They should not have punished the whole school for two people. The other seniors worked hard during their twelve years of school and look forward to their prom.

You know, people are always so repulsed by gays, until it is their child or loved one. I can not hate or judge these young people...I love all my gay family members!