INVOLVEMENTS AT OU:
I am currently a member of Shades, ABCD (Athens BlackContemporary Dance), and The Movement Organization.

WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO BE OUT or TO BE AN ALLY?
I think that it is important because I am someone of color and not many African Americans are comfortable with their sexuality and I feel that if I have the courage to be myself, then maybe that will help someone else feel comfortable about being out or being an ally.

WHY ARE YOU “PROUD”? WHAT ARE YOU MOST “PROUD” OF?
I am proud because despite the fact that there are still some problems with the LGBT community, we have come a long way. Especially African Americans. I am most proud of the fact that ever since I have been here at OU I have never heard anyone talk down to me because of my sexuality and also I am proud of the heterosexual African American students for accepting me no matter what my sexuality is.

WHAT WAS THE MOST DIFFICULT PART OF COMING OUT?
Coming out to my family. That was the hardest part because my family is very religious based and they see it as a sin and also see homosexuality as a weakness.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHERS WHO COME OUT?
Take your time, there is no rush. I would tell people to come out when they feel comfortable. Also when you are coming out make sure youhave someone you can trust to help you with the process because sometimes itcan be a strain physically, mentally and emotionally.

THOUGHTS FOR NON-LGBT PEOPLE ABOUT LGBT PEOPLE AND CONCERNS:
I would tell them to be open-minded and be more understanding of the things that LGBT people have to go through on a day to day basis.