Many speak out at B-GLAD rally

Words of support, pride and excitement filtered through College Green last week during the annual rally for Bisexual, Gay, Lesbian and Transgendered Awareness Days. The rally encompassed speakers of all ages, cultures and sexual orientations, who used their time to express the individual meaning they find in B-GLAD. Event coordinator and College freshman Alex Gino, explained that the main purpose of the event was to let the University community know about B-GLAD. "It's an opportunity for people to speak out and others to listen," she said. Many members of the University administration took time to say a few words about the celebration. Vice Provost for University Life Valarie Swain-Cade McCoullum started off the afternoon program by expressing her support for the "wonderful" diversity of the University community. Associate Vice Provost for University Life Larry Moneta spoke after McCoullum, building on her theme by stressing his pride in many different aspects of University life. "I am proud of the diversity on this campus," Moneta said. "But I think that we still need a little bit more enlightenment." Larry Burnly, director of the Greenfield Intercultural Center, delivered a message about the potential for conquering prejudice. "I was a homophobe," Burnly said. "But I am here now because you and others have helped me to become more whole -- a better human." Director of Fraternity and Sorority Affairs Scott Reikofski was the first homosexual speaker at the rally. He focused on the need for unity among the lesbian, gay and bisexual community. "As a community we don't have to agree," Reikofski said. "But we do have to respect each other." Reference librarian David Azzolina, who also spent time at the University as a student, emphasized the power people have in making positive changes for the future. "You have the power to come out-to be visible," Azzolina said. "You should always be able to walk hand and hand with the one you love." Azzolina also referred to tragic events in the lives of students who had been oppressed because of homosexuality. Lesbian Gay Bisexual Association co-Chairperson and College junior Maria Gonzalez took the opportunity to read a poem for her uncle, who recently died of AIDS. Then College sophomore Ron Jenkins explained that he is proud to be an African American homosexual who has recently come out to everyone he knows. "A community is out there, but you always have yourself," Jenkins said. "And sometimes that's the strongest community you can have." Assistant Director of Transfer Admissions Shelley Krause pointed out during her speech that people cannot walk away from the serious topics of acceptance and celebration of differences.