Will Wemer, Gay 
Junior, Journalism and Sociology              

INVOLVEMENTS AT OU:
LGBT Affairs Commissioner, Ohio University Student Senate, ALLY, Phi Alpha Delta (Pre-Law Fraternity), Tour Guide

WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO BE OUT or TO BE AN ALLY?
We aren’t going to make progress toward LGBT equality until all people realize that they know AT LEAST one person who is LGBTA. By coming out and staying out, we prove that we are a diverse and proud group of people who contribute to society in numerous ways and deserve recognition as such. 

WHY ARE YOU “PROUD”? WHAT ARE YOU MOST “PROUD” OF?
I am proud to call myself an active member of not only the LGBT community at OU, but also the general community at OU. The LGBTA community is a key piece of the puzzle and makes Athens a very special place to be. I am excited to be a part of today’s generation of OU’s LGBTA community, but I am excited to see the community grow and succeed in the years to come.

WHAT WAS THE MOST DIFFICULT PART OF COMING OUT?
For me it was coming out to my best guy friend. It’s a touchy thing and you have to walk a tight rope when answering the barrage of questions that get asked. In the end everything worked out, but the process there can be quite rocky.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHERS WHO COME OUT?
No matter how painful it may seem to come out, it feels even worse to be closeted. You will never forget the liberating feeling of coming out as long as you live. It’s a rush of confidence and it gives you the feeling that you can do anything.

THOUGHTS FOR NON-LGBT PEOPLE ABOUT LGBT PEOPLE AND CONCERNS:
Nobody forgets their first ever “Ally.” You can seriously change someone’s life forever by just being there.