 Chelsea Kretz, Ally
Senior, English Pre-Law
INVOLVEMENTS AT OU:
Students Defending Students, Center for Student Legal Services, P.O.W.E.R.
WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO BE AN ALLY?
Being an ally shows support not only for individuals, but also for an entire community. The LGBTQ community is a group dedicated to the pursuit and preservation of equality and as an ally, it is important to make your voice heard so that progress is seen as a universal endeavor.
WHY ARE YOU "PROUD"? WHAT ARE YOU MOST "PROUD" OF?
I am proud to be the daughter of two 'moms' who taught me compassion, strength and the power of activism.
WHAT WAS THE MOST DIFFICULT PART OF COMING OUT?
Although I myself don't have a personal 'coming out' story, I have seen how difficult, but ultimately rewarding, it was for my mom to finally be true to herself. I am so proud of her for opening up to me and my younger siblings. She has supported us through everything and we continue to be her biggest fans!
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHERS WHO COME OUT?
As the daughter of a lesbian, I would advise LGBT parents to be as open with their kids as possible. You've been there for all the horrific choir recitals and nights spent in the ER, as your children the least we can do is support you and love you as you navigate one of the most difficult moments of self-discovery I can imagine.
THOUGHTS FOR NON-LGBT PEOPLE ABOUT LGBT PEOPLE AND CONCERNS:
LGBT people are simply people! Whether you understand or 'agree' with the LGBT lifestyle is a matter of your personal choice, but we have an obligation to protect the freedoms of ALL Americans.
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