Matt Peterson, Gay  Residential Coordinator, Department of Residence Life
INVOLVEMENTS AT OU:
I'm currently involved with the Residence Life Best Practices Team, Division of Student Affairs Life Balance Committee, and the Athens Sexual Violence Prevention Coalition. I've worked with the Walk A Mile In Her Shoes program, worked with LeaderShape as teambuilding facilitator, and volunteer with the LGBT Center as a SafeZone facilitator.
WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO BE OUT?
Being out is an affirmation of self. It demonstrates to the world that you are a whole person, someone to be valued for all facets of who you are. It is also essential in a world that is still bound in the throws of heterosexism to reaffirm that there are all types of people in this world, not just non-LGBT folks. For me, there is no other way to be. I've been in a job where I was forced to go back into the closet, and it caused me a great deal of distress, mainly because I knew that I did not value being closeted. I made a choice to come to OU in large part because I knew that I would be able to be out and supported here.
WHY ARE YOU “PROUD”? WHAT ARE YOU MOST “PROUD” OF?
The word "pride" often carries with it a negative connotation, but I am so proud of who I am. I am proud that our community has come as far as we have in the face of institutionalized discrimination and harassment. I am proud that we have programs to support LGBT people and their allies, and that so many of those programs are strong and successful.
WHAT WAS THE MOST DIFFICULT PART OF COMING OUT?
In point of fact, I think the most difficult part was coming out to my family, not because they were not accepting, but more because of my own misconceptions about how they would react. I had worked myself up about it for a long time, and when all was said and done my family was brilliant about it! The love and affirmation that they have demonstrated since have brought us closer.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHERS WHO COME OUT?
When you are ready, you will know. Be brave, be bold. Come out in a way that works for you - you don't have to rely on what others have done.
THOUGHTS FOR NON-LGBT PEOPLE ABOUT LGBT PEOPLE AND CONCERNS:
Love is love. It's that simple. Regardless of your outlook on being Gay, each person is entitled to simple human dignity and respect, and so is that love. And for those non-LGBT folks that are committed allies for our community, THANK YOU! Your work is precious and essential.
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