To be a Gay, Lesbian, or Bisexual Student: Whats it like?
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I arrived at UCSB convinced that I would be able to live my life as "straight." I had been already been confused about my sexuality for several years. I grew up learning that anything gay was wrong, and in essence, that I was wrong. It was hard to deal with the fact that I was queer, and at UCSB I found the support I needed to finally accept it. For the first time, I felt that I had more freedom to explore my sexuality, and what it meant to me. I had to come out to myself, and accept that, before I could move on. My first step after that was to find a place where I could meet people who could help me. Over the summer I worked in the UCen and found out about the Resource Center for Sexual and Gender Diversity (RCSGD). Here for the first time, I felt comfortable talking about my sexuality. Through the RCSGD I learned about programs and events throughout the year; when looking for information or resources, the RCSGD is the best place to go.
Some people are at first surprised to learn that many Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Transsexual, Intersex, Questioning, Ally and other peoples now use "queer" as an all encompassing term for the community. Historically the word was used as a derogatory remark; the queer community has since reclaimed it as a positive, politically charged and empowering term. Coming out is a difficult thing to do, and no one should force you to do it. Throughout our lives society has told us that being queer is wrong. We are influenced by everything around us, such as cultural, religious, and economic backgrounds. Coming out is a personal decision; you have to make it for yourself according to what and when you think is right for you.
I was at first scared to be out on campus. I knew that not everyone on campus would be accepting or supportive of queer people, and queer issues. I knew there would be some disadvantages in doing so, but I also knew there were positive aspects. The queer community on campus is fairly easy to find, and incredibly welcoming. Not only will you meet a lot of new people, but also find a lot of the support you need. The coming out process is not easy, but there are a lot of resources on campus to help you through it. The RCSGD has a library, videos, a lounge, and year-long programming and they have a great staff that is always there to answer your questions. It was through the Resource Center that I learned about various organizations, events, and groups on campus such as the Queer Student Union (QSU), a social and political group on campus made up of students, staff, faculty and the community. I also became highly involved, and committed to Queer People of Color (QPOC), an inclusive student, staff, and community organization that recognizes racial, gender, and class inequalities and strives to support the specific cultural needs of queer people of color on the UCSB campus through educational, social, and political events. This year a new and exciting organization, Friendly Undergraduate Queers in it Together (FUQIT), started social programming for their members that include pool parties, water fights, parties, and dances
There are other departments on campus supportive of the queer community; the Women's Center has a library, a lounge, and diverse programs and events helpful to queer students. Counseling & Career Services offers queer and queer friendly counselors that can help you with anything you might be going through, as well as discussion groups for gay, bisexual and questioning men; lesbian, bisexual and questioning women; and trans people. The MulitCultural Center (MCC) has a lot of diverse and interesting films, performances, and events throughout the year as well as a study lounge. There is a residential interest hall called the "Rainbow House" that offers housing, programs, events, and support for all Queer people and their Allies on campus. A lot of people feel nervous about attending groups, and meetings, or coming to the RCSGD for information. Don't feel threatened, most of these places offer confidentiality and support. In the spring, the queer student groups, in collaboration with the RCSGD and other organizations on campus, put on Pride Week-a celebration of queer life. There are a lot of activities and events during this week and the information for Pride Week is always available at the RCSGD.
Dealing with your sexuality and coming out can be a very difficult thing to do; but remember that you don't have to do it alone. There is a community here at UCSB that is always willing to help, and knows what you are going through.
-Gerardo Zepeda
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