Ohio University

Liam Pal, Gay 

Junior, Theatre & LGBT Studies

INVOLVEMENTS AT OU:

Open Doors (Clerk), LGBT Center Stage member (2011-2012), and various theatrical productions

WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO BE OUT?:

It's important to be out because if someone knows at least one open-LGBT person, they are bound to be more accepting of the LGBT community as a whole.

WHY ARE YOU PROUD?:

I am proud to be who I am. I am most proud of my passion for LGBT issues and equality.

WHAT WAS THE MOST DIFFICULT PART ABOUT COMING OUT?:

I identify as a Gay-Christian. My faith was deeply reevaluated when I came out of the closet. I lost a really wonderful relationship with my grandmother because of it, which still to this day breaks my heart.

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

Don't give up. There are people here to help you in the process of coming out. Just because you don’t see them right away does not mean they are not there. NEVER BLEND IN!

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

LGBT rights are human rights and human right are LGBT rights!