Proud to be an Ally!
Roderick J. McDavis, Ally
President, Ohio University
INVOLVEMENT AT OU:
(Advocate and supporter for diversity in all its forms) ~ President, Office of the President 1970 Alumnus, Education
As President, I have the opportunity to work with students, faculty and staff on initiatives to keep Ohio University moving forward.
WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO BE AN ALLY?:
It is important to be an ally so that all members of our community feel welcomed, included and valued.
WHY ARE YOU PROUD?:
I am most proud of my work to embrace diversity in all its forms, encouraging all people to pursue their goals and fulfill their promise.
Nancy Baur, Ally
Graduate Student, Clinical Mental Health & Rehabilitation Counseling
INVOLVEMENT AT OU:
LGBT Center Graduate Assistant (2011-2012), Open Doors and general helper of all.
WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO BE AN ALLY?:
Believe in who you are and believe in the good inside those you love. Show the world!
WHY ARE YOU PROUD?:
I am proud because the people in my life are good people and they make me a better person. Regardless of what label is thrust upon them.
WHAT WAS THE MOST DIFFICULT PART ABOUT COMING OUT AS AN ALLY?:
As a teacher and an ally, it was hard to be supportive of my students who were gay. I "came out" when I stopped teaching in public schools. I am now preparing to go back in and fight for the rights of all students and teachers who are and who want to support people who identify as LGBT.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHERS WHO COME OUT?:
Be strong
THOUGHTS FOR NON-LGBT PEOPLE ABOUT LGBT PEOPLE AND THEIR CONCERNS:
Watch your language and don't say things like "gay" or "retarded" just because it is what you always say. There are thousands of words in the English language so choose some other ones.“Labels? Okay, fine. I'm bisensual. Heteroflexible.And life-curious. That about covers it.” ~Morgan Torva
Kris Washington, Ally
Assistant Director of Health Promotion
INVOLVEMENT AT OU:
Collegiate Recovery Program and OU alumnae
WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO BE AN ALLY?:
It is important for me to be an ally so people know that they can be their true self around me and that they won't be judged or disrespected.
