Krystal L. LaFontaine, Bisexual  
Junior - Communication Systems Management

INVOLVEMENTS AT OU:
Out & About, BI: the Way, Latino Student Union-Sgt. at Arms, Residence Life - Security Aide, and James Hall Council-Vice President.

WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO BE OUT?
It’s important to be out to show that there are many of us and we deserve the same rights as all U.S. citizens.  We have been oppressed for too long and with help of allies we will be equal sooner.

WHY ARE YOU “PROUD”?  WHAT ARE YOU MOST “PROUD” OF?
I am proud of people who work for the equality of LGBT people.   I am also proud of coming out and showing that anyone could be LGBT and you have to realize we are regular people too!

WHAT WAS THE MOST DIFFICULT PART OF COMING OUT? 
The most difficult part was telling family because they have a big impact on my emotions.  I have told my mom’s side of the family and am still struggling to tell my dad’s side because of their beliefs.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHERS WHO COME OUT? 
I would say that it is ok to come out slowly.  Start with the people you feel comfortable with, read as much information as you can about coming out so you could be somewhat prepared.  Come out to your family when you are ready.

THOUGHTS FOR NON-LGBT PEOPLE ABOUT LGBT PEOPLE AND CONCERNS:
Be understanding on LGBT issues.  Understand it’s hard to be generally unaccepted by the people who you live around.

COMMENTS: 
I hope that this country can get over the fact that not everyone is heterosexual.  I would like to marry my girlfriend someday, it’s sad that I am likely going to move out of this state to go somewhere where she and I can live a good life and are treated equal.