Mirabelle Pierre-Louis is a junior at Mendham who is passionate about civil rights, making change, and caring for humanity.  Alongside Lana Porter, Pierre-Louis had the idea to start the Progressive Perspectives Club.  The original notion came about in the flurry of Covid-19 related news and Black Lives Matter protests after the death of George Floyd.  They felt like they needed to bring awareness through the celebration of personal identity.  Pierre-Louis stated that people should be accepted “no matter where they come from, their religion, their race, or their gender identity”.

As vice president of Progressive Perspectives, Pierre-Louis “wanted to make sure that this club would not only be really successful this year, but continue to be successful after [they] graduate”.  Mirabelle felt – and still feels – ardent on the fact that acts of violence happening in communities made up by minorities are done out of ignorance.  She does not believe causes such as Black Lives Matter should be treated as a trend, and has shown that through Instagram infographics on her social media and even going to protests and sit-ins herself.  What stuck out to her the most during the protests was “the sense of unity and people who weren’t part of the protest coming out of their neighborhoods and showing support”.

The members of the club are “hoping through time people who may not have been as open minded” will change.  Pierre-Louis has expressed the viewpoint that at Mendham there is a lack of diversity, which calls for an expansion of inclusive organizations akin to Progressive Perspectives.  “Specifically at Mendham, I’m sure it is obviously very difficult as a minority, whether that means you’re brown or black or a part of the LGBT community, and sometimes you don’t always fit in with the majority,” stated Mirabelle.  It can sometimes feel “isolating”.  She went on to reiterate the clear goal to create a safe space for people to truly express themselves and embrace the things they most identify with.  Whether that be race, religion, sexuality, or gender identity, anyone is welcome to join the club.

Pierre-Louis believes it is important to know what is going on with the world and care about people other than yourself.  She drew emphasis on how easy it is to show up and listen, as well be willing to hear other people.  Within this age of information, it is essential to be up to date with news.  Reading, listening, and watching contributes to growth and development.  Pierre-Louis wants to remain an advocate for causes she feels strongly about through her adult life.  Even if it’s just donating a small amount of money or posting on social media, there is always a way to show support and get involved.

The first official meeting will be on Monday, November 23.  Progressive Perspectives plans to hold meetings every other week along with fundraising activities that donate money to causes like LGBTQ+, small businesses, or other communities facing hardship.  They will also have education-based fundraisers that help schools in inner-city New Jersey that do not have school supplies.

“If people could take one thing away from Progressive Perspective’s message as a club,” Pierre-Louis asserted, “it would be to be kind to other people and don’t judge someone on a label or stereotype”.