Ohio University

Keely Hultz, Lesbian 

Academic Advisor & Retention Specialist

INVOLVEMENTS AT OU:

Academic Advisor - College of Arts and Sciences, OU Alumnus and Advisor College of Arts and Sciences Student Ambassadors

WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO BE OUT?:

Personally, I feel that being out helps to break down fears and stereotypes placed upon LGBT individuals. It helps to increase awareness and affirmation of LGBT people and reduce discrimination based on gender identity or sexual orientation. Being out is a way to “pay it forward”; seeing others who are out and happy and accepted for who they are is what made me be comfortable taking that step myself. By being quiet, we allow others to take power from us, to marginalize us.  Being out is one way I have taken control of my own life.

WHY ARE YOU PROUD?:

I am most proud of the mother I have become.  I have to be proud of who I am so that I can teach my son to be proud of who he is and to feel secure with himself and his family.

WHAT WAS THE MOST DIFFICULT PART ABOUT COMING OUT?:

The most difficult part of coming out was getting past the fact that I was afraid to have people judge me before getting to know me.  It took me awhile to realize that maybe knowing me could be what changes someone’s view.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHERS WHO COME OUT?:

Be brave; know that you deserve respect. It’s understandable to be afraid to come out, to be afraid of how others may react to you or treat you, to be afraid that you will end up unhappy. Just realize that hiding such an important part of who we are does not create happiness; it creates fear, isolation, and hurt. It’s all about being happy.  The difficulties that may be found along the way of coming out are worth the happiness you will find in the end.

THOUGHTS FOR NON-LGBT PEOPLE ABOUT LGBT PEOPLE AND CONCERNS:

Get to know at least one LGBT person.  Allow people to live their lives.