{alltv} TV movie in works to tell lesbian teen's story

JACKSON, Miss. — A made-for-TV movie is in the works about Constance McMillen, the Mississippi student who took her high school to court over a rule prohibiting same-sex prom dates.

Diane Morgan, spokeswoman for ABC Family, confirmed this week that the cable channel was developing a movie about the 18-year-old's life but would not discuss details.

"It is a project that is in the very early stages at ABC Family," she said. Morgan said producers Craig Zadan and Neil Meron are behind the film, and John Gray, creator of the TV show Ghost Whisperer has been tapped to write and direct.

News of plans for the movie comes amid a recent spate of gay teens who have committed suicide after being harassed by their peers.

McMillen, who is a lesbian, made national news this spring when she sued the Itawamba County School District in northeast Mississippi after her high school principal refused to allow her to bring her girlfriend as her date to the school-sponsored prom. McMillen's request to be allowed to wear a tuxedo to the dance was also denied.

The school system responded to the suit by canceling the prom, setting off a tidal wave of national and international debate and criticism. The school district eventually settled the case, agreeing to pay McMillen $35,000 in damages plus attorneys fees.

Although school officials admitted no wrongdoing, gay-rights organizations and the American Civil Liberties Union, which represented McMillen in the suit, claimed victory.

ACLU gay rights attorney Christine Sun said McMillen's story already has made a important contribution to the discussion of gay rights across the nation, and a movie about her experience could provide further inspiration and support for teens who face similar harassment.

"Constance is the girl next door," Sun said. "And she has been an incredible advocate for herself and for other students who have experienced discrimination because of their sexual orientation."

McMillen's stand against the district's ban on same-sex dating made her an instant celebrity. Shortly after filing suit, Ellen DeGeneres had McMillen on her talk show and presented her with a $30,000 college scholarship check. She also served as a grand marshal in the New York City Gay Pride Parade in June.

McMillen had her share of resulting adversity as well. Feeling harassed for filing the lawsuit, McMillen transferred more than 200 miles away to Murrah High School in Jackson for the final weeks of her senior year.

"Although Constance ultimately prevailed, she had to go through hell because of what the school did to her," Sun said.

McMillen, who did not return calls seeking comment about the movie, said in June that she broke down in tears at the graduation ceremony. She had arrived at Murrah so late that her name and academic achievements were not on the graduation program.

"I didn't really want to walk, but I did it for my parents," she said.