Messages of Support

College campuses across the country rallied together in support of National Coming Out Day. The day is dedicated to gay, lesbian, transgendered and bisexual individuals coming out to their communities, friends and families.

But in light of recent suicides motivated by bullying, Hastings College students come out to support hope and tolerance for all.

In the last month there have been seven suicides by young homosexuals and 12 cases in the last year. But it's not just within the gay community.

In 2007, suicide was the third leading cause of death for people ages 15 to 25. It's that scary statistic that's making college students aware – everyone needs a friend.

Written by the hands of peers are messages of hope, support and reminders of tolerance.

"You never know what someone might be going through and if you can be that person that can listen and say hey your ok you're loved we support you, that may make all the difference in the world," said student Donivan Norman, member of HC's Alliance.

And that message may mean, the recent suicides never reach Hastings College.

"It really is about being supportive of everyone on campus no matter what their sexual orientation maybe, their gender, their race, it's really about the fact that every student is equal and should be supported," he said.

But emblazoned on the pavement is a reminder many are not. According to the You-Are-Loved Chalk Message Project, 25 to 50 percent of LGBTQ youth are initially rejected by their families upon coming out and 60 percent feel unsafe at their schools.

"That is sort of a staggering percentage," said Norman.

"These kids need to know they are loved just as they are, they are loved for who they are," said Paul Guequierre, Human Rights Campaign deputy press secretary.

On Hastings' campus, students said it can start with a message.

"People need to take a little bit of extra time and making sure they are being tolerant and they are being encouraging and not saying things that drive people down," said Norman.

"I think the more people that come out today on national coming out day the more kids across this country will see that they are indeed normal and indeed loved," said Guequierre.

Loved for who they are, not what they may be said Norman.

"We don't have to agree with everyone but you at least have to be willing to say you what you're a person and you're important," he said.

From the You-Are-Loved Chalk Message Project:

On October 5th, 2009 - the 1st Annual Nationwide You-Are-Loved Chalk Message Project took place. In every region of the United States (and even some locations overseas) - messages of hope, support, and encouragement were vividly written in sidewalk chalk.

Since its national launch, thousands have found support and inspiration through the project. In addition to providing empowerment for LGBTQ individuals, many outside of the queer community find hope through the project's dedication to suicide-prevention and battling feelings of isolation and loneliness.


(2010-10-12/nebraska.tv)