Charlie Pasciucco ’13, Contributing Writer
I believe we already do a great job of supporting all sexual orientations. I have always felt that Coming Out Day has been pertinent, considering it allows students to understand that one’s sexual orientation should not define them. For instance, on Coming Out Day, many members of our community on stage are straight allies, or simply supporters of one’s right to a certain sexual orientation. This helps to demonstrate that our Gay Straight Alliance is truly represented by all members of our community; something that is very encouraging. I also believe that many members of our community are still “straight allies” even though they were not actually on stage.
Maggie Shilling ’14, Contributing Writer
With the recent Deerfield theater production of The Laramie Project, discussion about homosexuality and gay rights has spread throughout campus. A big question brought up is whether or not the Deerfield community is accepting of all sexual orientations.
In three years in a dorm, I have never seen or heard blatant anti-gay acts or comments. If anything, I have only heard comments of acceptance and praise for those who bravely present themselves as gay or a gay-ally. Deerfield is a very accepting school in regard to homosexuality – clubs like the GSA open up free discussion about topics that are uncomfortable to some and provide support to students in need.
When I think of Deerfield acceptance, I think of Coming Out Day, when students show their support to those struggling with their sexuality. Students on that stage open up to the community and reveal a part of them that may be concealed to some people.
This takes a lot of courage, and the student body applauds those who show that courage. Coming Out Day is not a day for our student body to find out who is gay and who is straight – it is a day for our student body to come together and accept each other for who they are.
Deerfield is a tolerant campus; however, I think there is one more thing that we have yet to accomplish as a school. Next time on Coming Out Day, and every day, for that matter, all students should be on that stage. No matter who people are, or what their sexual preferences are, all students should lend their support. Praise your peers, support each other, and soon Deerfield will be more tolerant than it is now.