 Carrie Martin, Ally
Graduate Student, College Student Personnel
INVOLVEMENTS AT OU:
As an undergrad, I was involved in quite a bit. But currently as a graduate student I am a graduate assistant for Learning Community Programs and a member of the Student Personnel Association
WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO BE AN ALLY?
It is important to be an ally to show members of the LGBT community that they have support all over the university and that they are not alone. It is also important to show the university and Athens community that we are an accepting and supportive student body.
WHY ARE YOU “PROUD”? WHAT ARE YOU MOST “PROUD” OF?
I am proud of knowing that members of the LGBT community feel free to be themselves around me. I am proud to stand with members of the community to say that people of all sexual orientations are not only okay, but valued.
WHAT WAS THE MOST DIFFICULT PART OF COMING OUT?
The most difficult part of deciding to be an ally was the worry that I could not make a difference. I had to realize that becoming a part of the SafeZone was a way, however small, to make a difference.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHERS WHO COME OUT?
Find someone you feel comfortable talking to in order to help you through the process.
THOUGHTS FOR NON-LGBT PEOPLE ABOUT LGBT PEOPLE AND CONCERNS:
People in the LGBT community are not weird, scary, or threatening. They are people, the same as you and me. Be open, accepting, and respectful and you may learn things that will truly help you become a better person.
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