Kate Steven, Queer  Junior, Community Health Services, Gender Studies
INVOLVEMENTS AT OU:
Female co-chair of Open Doors, Boyd Dining Hall staff, Bobcatalina, Empowering Women of Ohio.
WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO BE OUT or TO BE AN ALLY?
It's important to be out because at that point you're no longer invisible. People are more likely to become allies if they know that they know someone in the LGBT community. Being out as an Ally can also be difficult thing to do for many people, but your strength and support of the LGBT community and our rights does not go unnoticed. If you're an Ally, thank you!
WHY ARE YOU “PROUD”? WHAT ARE YOU MOST “PROUD” OF?
I'm proud because there's no reason to not be. One of the things I’m most proud of is being able to help others through their coming out process.
WHAT WAS THE MOST DIFFICULT PART OF COMING OUT?
The most difficult part of coming out for me was/is knowing that the relationships I have with people could change or be lost based on my sexual orientation. It's also difficult to have people see more than just your sexual orientation and gender identity when you come out.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHERS WHO COME OUT?
Do what feels right for you and make sure you have someone to support you.
THOUGHTS FOR NON-LGBT PEOPLE ABOUT LGBT PEOPLE AND CONCERNS:
Just because someone identifies with something outside the majority, it doesn't make them a different person. See people beyond their sexual orientation and gender, and be the person that people will see as a supporter.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS:
I identify as "Queer" because my sexual orientation and gender goes beyond just "Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual or straight" of "man, woman, trans". There is fluidity to my sexuality, gender, and the people I am attracted to, and I choose to indentify as Queer because it encompasses my entire identity.
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