Leslie Jo Shelton, Gay
Graduate Resident Director, Residence Director

INVOLVEMENTS AT OU:
Graduate Resident Director, Residence Life. 

WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO BE OUT or TO BE AN ALLY?
As the great Audre Lorde once explained, the personal is political.  Stand up and lead by example to break down intolerance and inequality. Allies are one of the most important elements in the fight for equality, so please keep doin' your ‘thang’!

WHY ARE YOU “PROUD”? WHAT ARE YOU MOST “PROUD” OF?
I am proud when I see visible members of the LGBT community(especially Allies!) in my residence halls with rainbow ribbons or Safe Zone stickers. I am also very proud to be a member of a community that speaks out and acts courageously every day with the vision of an equal future for all. 

WHAT WAS THE MOST DIFFICULT PART OF COMING OUT?
The most difficult part of coming out was repeatedly explaining that being gay is not a “phase.”

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHERS WHO COME OUT?
Stay strong and never stop being proud - there are many others who are down with the struggle and are there to support you!

THOUGHTS FOR NON-LGBT PEOPLE ABOUT LGBT PEOPLE AND CONCERNS:
Fear stems from ignorance.  Educate yourself and reflect upon equality for all.