A few weeks ago, I signed a piece of paper formally stating my position as an ally to the LGBT community.
Since in the future I’ll most likely continue to write about men and my own heterosexual experiences, I figure now is a good time to talk about a few things we can do to become allies to the LGBT community and make sure everyone feels welcome on our campus.
1. Don’t say, “That’s so gay.” We go to Northwestern. So find a better adjective—Instead we can say that’s so stupid, irritating, frustrating, maddening, or just plain fucked up. But please, if something sucks or is bothering you, don’t call it gay. People may not mean to be homophobic, but this creates an environment where it’s acceptable to use gay as synonymous with bad, uncool, or annoying.
2. The other day I was sitting on the couch watching Modern Family when someone said, “I want Cam to be my gay best friend!” And don’t get me wrong, Cam makes me laugh harder than most characters of Modern Family (I don’t know what that says about my reaction to stereotypes… but I’ll continue regardless). But, I think we need to be careful about our assumptions of gay men as effeminate toys for women. The idea of gay men as shopping partners and gossipmongers not only objectifies these men, but also perpetuates the stereotype that all gay men are feminine. I’m not saying there’s anything wrong with having a gay best friend, but someone should be your friend because you like that person, not because of his or her sexual identity.
3. Let’s get involved! I think people, myself included, have been discouraged from joining Rainbow Alliance as a heterosexual. But we should show the LGBT community our support and get involved with any activities we can in order to dispel stereotypes and eliminate stigmas associated with the LGBT community. Let’s get some knowledge and then spread it. There’s also a student group called Northwestern Greek Allies for members of fraternities and sororities to show support for the LGBT community. I’m planning on joining, and if you’re a member of the Greek community, I strongly recommend it.
There’s a lot we can do to make everyone on campus feel welcome and supported. Become an ally!
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Northwestern chapter and does not reflect the views of Her Campus.