Maulik Pancholy is an actor, youth author, and speaker who brings a message of hope and inclusion to schools across the United States. His two award-winning books, “The Best At It” and “Nikhil Out Loud,” offer empathetic support to young readers on a path of self-acceptance and bravery.

“Being different is your superpower. Live out loud.”

– Maulik Pancholy

In April 2024, Pancholy was booked to speak at an anti-bullying assembly at Mountain View Middle School in Central Pennsylvania. With deep passion for his acting roles, novels, and anti-bullying work including the #ActToChange campaign, students and parents alike were heartbroken when the local school board voted to cancel his appearance. Members of the board pointed to Pancholy’s identity as a gay man and his novels’ message of inclusion, expressing concern that his talk may end up violating the district’s ‘no political speeches’ policy.

Pancholy’s work aligns with the efforts of education-based organizations to promote inclusivity and anti-bullying initiatives in schools. These organizations have long championed the importance of creating safe and supportive environments for all students.

A Parent’s Petition Draws Nearly 10,000 Signatures

Starting a Change.org petition

A local parent, Trisha Comstock, decided to organize her community and advocate for inclusion. She started a Change.org petition and wrote, “the cancellation sends a harmful message to our students – that being different is something to be ashamed of or hidden away. We must challenge this narrative by reinstating the assembly with Maulik Pancholy.”

The story highlighted issues of discrimination based on sexual orientation, emphasizing the need for more inclusive environments.

Gaining community and media attention

Following two weeks of public discussion and nearly 10,000 petition signatures, the school board voted to allow the assembly to proceed as originally planned with the option for students to opt out if their parents wished. News outlets like the New York Times and CNN shared the story, spreading this important local conversation nationwide.

“When someone has a loss of belonging, it compromises their wellbeing. Don’t we want all of our students, our staff, and our community at large to feel like they belong? When that happens, we all win… And we’re just getting started.”

– Trisha Comstock to CNN

By speaking up, Trisha and thousands of supporters showed diverse members of the community that they matter, and they belong.

Maulik Pancholy Shares A Message of Gratitude and Hope

What happened after the petition victory

On May 22, 2024, just over one month after Trisha started her petition, Pancholy visited Mountain View Middle School. He met the school’s Superintendent, Principal, faculty members, staff, and of course – the students.

In Pancholy’s own words, “My heart is filled with gratitude for every parent, caregiver, faculty member, administrator, community member and particularly every student who stood up for themselves and for each other to make this visit happen. You’ve inspired me. You’ve inspired so many.”

Take action today

Celebrating Pride Month and beyond

As we move into the second half of 2024 and look to celebrations such as LGBT History Month, the progress all petition starters and supporters have made this year, and all the work that’s yet to come, we’re celebrating people like Trisha Comstock, Maulik Pancholy, and the school board who listened to their community’s demand for inclusion.

Take action, big or small

Change is made every day by people who decide to speak up, and those who add their voice. What issues do you care about? Here are three things you can do right now:

1. Start a petition 
2. Sign a petition
3. Add a comment to a petition

We believe that taking action for positive change generates hope – whether that change takes two weeks, two years or two decades. Let’s get started, and let’s keep going.