Technically, this is my second week volunteering at the Spectrum Center.  However, during my first week, I was learning how to log into this tumblr… so Welcome to Issue #1! It may be worth a lot someday like Superman, Batman, or Green Lantern #1.

Every week, I’ll write a blog about my experiences while volunteering.  Why should I have all the fun?  I’ve wanted to volunteer at the Spectrum Center for over two years, but never had the chance before this - left to wonder what went on.  Now, you can have the opportunity I always hoped for… A chance to hear about what goes on around here.

Story #1: The Parentals

During my first week, a pair of parents came into the office.  They were the first visitors I ever received while at the front desk, and usual one’s at that.  Parents rarely seem to come to the Spectrum Center.  They were wonderful. Their child was busy with orientation at the Residential College.  As such, they took the time to come and ask questions…  

What kind of activities are there on campus for LBGTQ students?

What will his major be like?

Is his housing LBGTQ friendly?

Other than the fact that they were parents instead of a student, none of this surprised me.  I had pondered these questions as well as an incoming freshman.  What startled me more was my response…

There are many activities.  What were his interests in High School?

What is his major?

Which housing/learning program did he choose?

What all my questions were searching for is certain housing and majors that are less accepting of our lifestyle. It’s sad that there still exists a distinction between where a queer student is welcome on campus’. With everything that we have achieved at university, why does this patchiness still exist?  Why are some of my friends and fellow students still afraid of coming out when they are placed in certain dorms freshman year, or make the decision to wait until they fulfill the concentration they came here for?

Thanks GSA Network for the photograph.

It is only when these divisions are no longer clear that we are truly equals.  This is a long course of acceptance and accepting ourselves.  Join me in this process?