I don't know how these things have gone in the past, but I'm actually scared for our ER riders. I read an article from Notre Dame's Student paper about the visit ER had with them a while back. Notre Dame's Administration, at least in appearance, support non-discrimination for GLBT students. So does my alma mater SMU. But I would be afraid to put on this kind of a presentation there. The visit to Notre Dame did not sound like a picnic. I will be praying for the safety of the ER riders. I wish I could support them financially, but I'm barely making it as it is. If they were coming to a school near San Antonio (or even Austin), I would be willing to help out, but the closest to me will be in Dallas. My dad went to DBU. I'm incredibly curious to see how that visit goes. I'm even thinking about visiting home and helping them out up there. I am absolutely shocked that these schools can get away with these policies in today's society. It makes me feel like in many ways we're moving backwards. Having gone to a conservative institution (SMU) in which there were allies and GLBT student groups I assumed this was similar to other conservative institutions. Apparently, SMU isn't all that conservative compared to others. How can you claim to be an Academic environment and not allow freedom of thought? Well, my last thought is that the two institutions in Atlanta, while there may have been some violent acts against GLBT students in the past, are very supportive of GLBT rights at least from an Administrative standpoint. I basically want to applaud Spelman and Morehouse for their brave administration and commitment to freedom of thought and academics. Hopefully, this attitude will make an impact on the students.
And, also, I want to personally thank the brave Equality Riders as they embark on their journey to change hearts and minds. Your efforts our appreciated.
Kyle