Written by Shelby Brooks.

It was smiles all round when the Hoppers Crossing Secondary College team exited the Legislative Assembly after a landslide vote to pass their Sex and Gender Education Bill.

The Honourable Jagveer Singh sponsored the bill and was thrilled that the vote was 45 to 14.

“It is an honour that we had such high support from the Youth Parliament to pass this bill,” Jagveer Singh said.

The Honourable Abubakari Irakoze was feeling “rather exuberant” after successfully speaking in Parliament.

“Emotions and passions start flowing and you just let it all out.”

Faculty members from Hoppers Crossing Secondary College were in attendance of the debate, with Principle Keith Halge and Assistant Principle Leyna Buller very impressed with the student’s conduct in Parliament.

“They’re talking about something quite controversial and they were considerate and understanding and representing multiple aspects of the community,” Ms Buller said.

While Hon. Irakoze thought the opposition did not raise the most valid points, he hoped it was a step in the right direction for a more inclusive and accepting future.

“I hope this bill sends a clear message to politicians about what young people want in terms of sex and gender education,” Hon. Singh said.