When the new FFA Value Statements debuted at the 94th National FFA Convention & Expo in 2021, the message was clear: All are welcome into the organization with open arms.
The value statements not only reflect the organization’s commitment to inclusivity and equitability, but also serve as a guide for chapters as they plan and carry out their Program of Activities each year.
- We respect and embrace every individual’s culture and experiences.
- We welcome every individual’s contribution to advance our communities and the industry of agriculture.
- We cultivate an environment that allows every individual to recognize and explore their differences.
- We create leadership opportunities for every individual to enhance their personal and professional endeavors.
The William Penn High School FFA in New Castle, Del., is a prime example of what it means to embody each of the FFA values. As a highly diverse chapter with affiliate membership, they welcome students from all backgrounds and walks of life, and they foster a safe, inclusive environment that allows each member to thrive.
“Our chapter is open to every single person who wants to join,” says MaKayla Counts, who served as the William Penn High School FFA Chapter’s first Black female president during the 2022-23 school year. “We embrace all cultures, ethnicities, races and sexual orientations; whoever you are, you have a place with us.”
On June 1, the William Penn High School FFA partnered with its school’s Gender-Sexuality Alliance to host an after-school event called “AG-cepting.”
During the event, local environmentalist and avid hiker Josh Sheets discussed his experiences as a member of the LGBTQ+ community and how spending time in nature helped him cope with various challenges he faced.
“Our chapter has members from many different communities, clubs and organizations, including the Gender-Sexuality Alliance,” says William Penn High School FFA advisor Katherine Hawkins. “Coming together to host a Pride month event just made sense. Plus, hearing from Josh Sheets really helped illustrate the point that you can be part of both FFA and the LGBTQ+ community. It doesn’t have to be either/or. You can just be you.”
Each attendee also had the opportunity to decorate and design a pin, provided by the William Penn High School FFA, in a way that showed their support for agriculture and the LGBTQ+ community. Participants then added the pins to their backpacks and clothing, showcasing their “ag-ceptance.”
“Collaborating with other communities is so important when it comes to overcoming — and ultimately, eradicating — stigmas,” says William Penn High School FFA Treasurer Jeffery Brennan, who is also a member of the LGBTQ+ community. “The only way forward is to come together, form connections and embrace our unique perspectives.”
Learn more about the FFA value statements and find ways to incorporate them in your chapter’s Program of Activities with these educator resources.
