LGBT

I figured I would write about the LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender) panel that came to our class the other day. I thought it was interesting to hear their point of view on how students here at James Madison University view them as members of the LGBT. I really enjoyed the panel because I think it takes a lot of courage to stand up to a group of people who belong to the same community as they do, JMU, and explain to us about how it is hard sometimes being labeled as part of that group.
It was influential to see them stand up for what they believe in. I thought it was surprising to know that when one of the girls went shopping they would be reprimanded for buying boys and girls clothes than for being a lesbian. This relates to our class because not only do women get discriminated against for their gender, but when you are a part of the LGBT club you automatically get the stereotype that you are gay. One of the girls on the panel explained that some gay men or women do not like the label of gay or lesbian. This dislike for labels is due to the fact that some women or men are just starting their coming out process and may still not want to hear that they are gay or lesbian. I thought this was interesting because someone who is not afraid to consider themselves gay may have a sense of worry that comes with the coming out process.
This LGBT really opened my eyes to the measures this group takes in order to get their voices heard. Just like women in the first and second wave of feminism, they have to fight for their rights in society. The group also has to deal with the hardships that may occur when finding a relationship. LGBT groups are usually the minority on campuses or even in a community so it is hard to find someone that fits who they desire. There are many groups who face discrimination, but it is up to those groups and societies willingness to be open to different view points (even if the viewpoints don’t fit the social norms) to allow for such a variety of groups. Groups that do not fit the social norms of society will continue to be made, but those groups should not be discriminated because of their differences.