<p>Dear Vandy 3023,</p>
<p>You have proven that society would probably be better off without religion. This whole conversation is ridiculous, because you claims that seeing a rainbow colored flag “burdens” you. If it was black history month, no one would be upset with having black history posters/Africa flags being flown. The fact is that its more about culture rather than religion. The Bible dictates that people are not supposed to have sex outside of marriage or wear mix fabric clothing. I highly doubt you has gone his entire life without wearing polyester or another blended fabric. </p>
<p>Homosexuality is a human reality, not a contrived phenomenon. It is in every family, every community, every school. Therefore, shows like Modern Family and Happy Endings are just showing an accurate representation of an American family. For you to say that certain types of people should be excluded from television shows because of their sexual preference just justifies and highlights their importance even more. That’s exactly why they’re there. Their presence will hopefully make you, and other uncomfortable people, more accepting and openminded. In fact, studies have shown that views on gay people are improving at a fast rate, and this is due largely to the large roles they play on the new generation of television shows. </p>
<p>Homophobes (even the ones in denial like you) are the reason why Vanderbilt was right to take such an aggressive stance on gay rights. I’m not mad at him, as it is likely his parents’ fault, or his religion’s, that he was not taught to be more accepting of others’ differences. There was once a time that I, as an African American, was would have been segregated from institutions such as Vanderbilt, and people like you would have been holding up signs with Bible verses in an attempt to shame and discourage me from attending. </p>
<p>If the fact that an elite college decided to support a group of marginalized citizens who are, without a doubt, the most vulnerable students “burdens” you, you have some serious issues that you need to work out with yourself. Many of these kids come from situations in which they’ve been bullied in school, bullied by their parents, and bullied in their houses of worship for their entire lives. If it “burdens” you that they have one month in which they can feel valued and visible, then you obviously aren’t a very sympathetic person. Furthermore, many of these students come from southern states such as Alabama and Mississippi, where gay pride flags are probably as frequently seen as UFOs and leprechauns.</p>
<p>These are kids who have been outsiders their entire lives. And you feel “burdened.” </p>
<p>The suicide attempt rate for LGBT youth is CONSERVATIVELY estimated to be at 30%. I am part of this statistic, as I have attempted suicide twice in my life. People like you are only adding “fuel to the fire” when they decide to support hate over love, injustice over justice. We live in a world where certain people who fit the “norm” are treated differently than others, and you want to make sure that this stays the same.</p>
<p>The fact is that for progress to be made, people are going to have to be made uncomfortable. When the first black-white couple got married in Alabama, do you think they were met with open arms? Of course not. It will take time for gay couples to be treated without prejudice, but that time will come at some point. It may take more years than I will be on this Earth. But, I am confident that day will come. </p>
<p>Unfortunately, we live in a society where humanity has decided to self-categorize and separate based off of differences. But as the new generation, we can make this different.</p>
<p>It ultimately comes down to two sides. You can be on the right side of history or the wrong side. You can choose to be on the side of intolerance, fear-mongering, and discrimination. Or, you can choose to be on the side that supports equality and justice. You have to look in the mirror and decide what type of person you are, and whether what you stand for is truly indicative of the values you hold in your heart.</p>
<p>Do you really want to have to explain to your grandchildren that you supported discrimination and hatred? How would you like it if you found out your grandfather was a Klansman? How would that make you feel? I’m hoping the words shame and embarrassment come to mind.</p>
<p>You are at Vanderbilt, so therefore you are an intelligent and capable individual. Hopefully, you will come to the logical conclusion that people do not choose to live harder lives. Hopefully, you will come around and decide that gay rights are human rights.</p>
<p>“Diversity makes society stronger”- Benjamin Franklin</p>
I wish you all the prosperity and happiness in your future no matter where you choose to attend. May God bless you and your partner.</p>