Shannon's Race, Gender, and Mass Media Blog: Post #7- LGBT Community

LGBT students have an ally in Virginia Smith, Oregon GLSEN co-chair

Article: http://blog.oregonlive.com/themombeat/2012/10/5_questions_virginia_smith_ore.html

Response:

In the middle of Ally Week, I believe it is appropriate to respond to an article regarding the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) society. In addition, I have friends who are gay and I would like to support them and help spread the word on how to respect them and help them feel comfortable in the world. Ally Week is a week (October 15-19th) that recognizes allies against negative treatment of LGBT students. It is specifically sponsored by GLSEN (Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network). This article recognizes the support that Virginia Smith, who is a co-founder of Oregon GLSEN, has for the community and explores ways on how others can too. Being a LGBT in today's society seems to be difficult, with constant ridicule and people not accepting one for who they are. It is also important that the LGBT community be recognized because although they are more frequently growing in society today, they are still a part of the world and matter just as much as everyone else. It is also crucial that society become educated about the LGBT community and understand how they feel and how one can become allies with them to show support.

Some statistics regarding the LGBT community are astonishing, such as 40% of homeless youth are LGBT students who left their homes due to unwelcoming families. In addition, of the 8,500 LGBT 6th through 12th grade students, 85% heard the word "gay" used in a negative manner, as well as 81% who were verbally harassed and 38% who were physically harassed. The abuse and ridicule the LGBT community receives is outrageous and needs to be recognized so it can stop. One recommendation is to become a part of a gay-straight alliance group and support various event s that are held. The article also mentions that parents and teachers should be a support system for the student, which could include putting up posters, etc., in addition to being a support system for each other. Overall, this is an extremely important issue and it is crucial that one learns about the LGBT community and not disrespect them.