Eve Barajas (pronouns she/her) is a sophomore at Paso Robles High School and president of the PRHS Equality Club. She played a leading role in coordinating the historic October “Coming Out Against Hate” forum at PRHS, which made national and international news. At the forum, students told their stories and spoke out against homophobic hate directed at the LGBTQ+ community. While managing a busy school schedule, Barajas co-wrote an opinion piece, spoke with the media, and served as MC for the standing room only event. The courage and leadership of Barajas and her fellow LGBTQ+ classmates prompted the school district to commit to a number of changes, including staff and student training, safe access to lockers and bathrooms for nonbinary and trans students, LGBTQ+ inclusive curriculum, and health education that complies with state law.
She lives in Atascadero with her grandparents and pet poodle, where she enjoys playing music and practicing art. She plans to participate in Advanced Choir all throughout high school, attend Cuesta College, then transfer to a four year university.