Leslie Jo Shelton, Gay
Assistant Resident Director - Residence Life
1st year - Master of Education: College Student Personnel
LIST YOUR INVOLVEMENTS AT OU:
Student Personnel Associate VP for Membership and Alumni Relations, First Year Experience Committee and the LGBT Advocacy Council.
WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO BE OUT or TO BE AN ALLY?
Coming out is a continual political process for me. When it’s time, it’s important to come out so LGBTIQQA individuals can stand together loud and proud. Not only do we need our voices heard, but being out paves the way for others to come out and join the struggle for equality.
WHY ARE YOU “PROUD”? WHAT ARE YOU MOST “PROUD” OF?
I’m proud to be myself, challenge the status quo, and help others to do the same.
WHAT WAS THE MOST DIFFICULT PART OF COMING OUT?
Coming out to individuals who are closed-minded and not ready to be challenged is frustrating. It’s not necessarily difficult, but just frustrating. Their outlook isn’t going to keep me from being out and proud though… you just ‘gotta brush them hataz off!
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHERS WHO COME OUT?
Be brave, be proud, and form support systems.
THOUGHTS FOR NON-LGBT PEOPLE ABOUT LGBT PEOPLE AND CONCERNS:
Do some research- look into reliable sources of information, get to know LGBTIQQA people, don’t be afraid to ask questions, and don’t be afraid to challenge yourself and others.
COMMENTS: Ally’s are so important in the struggle for equality. Props to all the Ally’s who challenge themselves and others!
