Andrew Stuart, Gay  Assistant Head, Reference and Instruction, University Libraries
INVOLVEMENTS AT OU:
Administrative Senate, Facilities Planning Advisory Committee, Out @ Work, University Libraries Diversity Committee.
WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO BE OUT or TO BE AN ALLY?
It is important to be out so that LGBT students and staff know that they are not alone and so that others know that we are everywhere. It also helps to make OU a welcoming place for everyone.
WHY ARE YOU “PROUD”? WHAT ARE YOU MOST “PROUD” OF?
I'm most proud of being honored as a mentor at the Pride Graduation ceremony last year.
WHAT WAS THE MOST DIFFICULT PART OF COMING OUT?
Taking that first step out of the closet and letting others know. There weren't many role models back in the late 70's when I came out.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHERS WHO COME OUT?
Think about who needs to know and try to gauge their possible reactions. Be sure to have a support system in place before you get started, so that you have people to help you deal with any reactions; good or bad.
THOUGHTS FOR NON-LGBT PEOPLE ABOUT LGBT PEOPLE AND CONCERNS:
Learn more about us. We truly are everywhere, in your class, in your dorm in your church, in the library. Don't assume that everyone you know is straight.
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