CarnalNation

A Mississippi high school has cancelled its senior prom following a request from an 18 year-old student to bring her girlfriend and wear a tuxedo to the event. When she was told she would be denied access and barred from dancing with her same-sex partner, Constance McMillen challenged the school’s decision through The American Civil Liberties Union.

The school board canceled the dance in response and encouraged “private citizens” to organize their own event. "Due to the distractions to the educational process caused by recent events, the Itawamba County School District has decided to not host a prom at Itawamba Agricultural High School this year. It is our hope that private citizens will organize an event for the juniors and seniors, however, at this time, we feel that it is in the best interest of the Itawamba County School District, after taking into consideration the education, safety and well being of our students."

McMillen was forced to face her classmates today and reports that they were not pleased with the decision. The Canadian Press reports that one student told her, "Thanks for ruining my senior year."

"All I want is the same chance to enjoy my prom night like any other student. But my school would rather hurt all the students than treat everyone fairly," McMillen said in a statement. "This isn't just about me and my rights anymore — now I'm fighting for the opportunity of all the students at my school to have our prom."