By Ashlei Maltman
IV Leader staff, Oct. 25, 2007
Professor Jason Beyer led a presentation called “Whose Marriage Is It Anyway?” on Thursday, Oct. 11 in honor of National Coming Out Day. He examined homosexual figures in the past dating back to the Roman Empire, how reproduction plays a role in peoples’ prejudice against homosexuals, and how prejudice is an excuse to exclude a group of people from society.
Beyer said that we need to tackle homosexuality “on its own terms” instead of comparing it to other taboos such as polygamy. Beyer asked attendees, “Is there any basis besides prejudice for linking these things up?” He answered his question by saying, “No, positions based on myth will never successfully prove their point.”
Ross Hawley, a student who attended the presentation, said, “I think National Coming Out Day is to show people that they will be accepted here in this area, so it helps those who have not come out be more comfortable.”
Cyndi Blomquist said, “It’s a great way to give awareness because it’s not okay for people to put down others due to their sexual orientation.”
Lacee Koplin expressed her opinion of school’s recognition of National Coming Out Day, “I think it’s a great idea! People need a safe space to be themselves and maybe it can cut down on some of the suffering LGBT people undoubtedly suffer.”
Stephanie Anderson said, “I think it is their duty as educators to expose students’ minds to new and different things.”
Professor Christine Reed said, “As a mother, I think this issue should be addressed even younger. Much of the confusion, fear, and prejudice come from a lack of understanding.”