LETTER: Gay discussion proved helpful

Editor,

Last Thursday, I had the opportunity of inviting three panelists from the USU Pride Alliance to talk with my Multicultural American Literature classes about issues of sexuality. It was truly an amazing experience. Marti, Cy, and Tim began the class by simply opening the floor to questions. For the next hour, we had one of the most honest, informative and open conversations I have seen on this campus. What made it possible was an atmosphere that encouraged hard questions as a way to build understanding. I am not alone in thinking the experience was important. Students said they were “truly touched,” that it gave them a “new perspective,” and that “it made [them] think.” One student expressed the thoughts of many by saying that she “came to the discussion with my mind made up,” and when she left her “heart and mind were open to their beliefs and values.”

This past semester, The Statesman has been full of letters that attack gays and lesbians. Because they begin with assertions rather than questions, these letters have the effect of shutting down any real dialog. I am left wondering if our campus wouldn’t be a more open and tolerant place if there weren’t more conversations like the ones that happened in my classes last week.

Publicly, I want to thank Marti, Cy, and Tim for talking with my students; it was brave of them. My hope is that other individuals and classes will take advantage of the resources offered by the Pride Alliance and the Gay and Lesbian Resource Center in an effort to improve the quality of life for all students, faculty and staff. My thanks also to my students for asking real questions, taking risks, and being willing to bear witness to others’ stories – an equally brave act. To move in the direction of change requires only listening when those who appear “different” tell their stories. It can happen at the

dinner table, when riding the campus shuttle or while sitting in class. We only have to open to the possibility.

Jennifer Sinor