I would like to thank all who participated in "Gay, fine by me" and attended the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender (GLBT) Issues forum last week. As a student leader from a peer institution, I was delighted to be a part of such a great series of events. I believe that both "the shirt" campaign and the forum represent something that many at your University are willing to begin talking about. This truly is a wonderful starting point that will allow the University to first serve those who need it most.I would like to quickly address a correction to a misprint in The Observer as well. I truly appreciate the support and converge that the staff has given to the past week's events, but I would also like to correct a quote that was printed. In the article regarding the forum, it states that I said that "justice comes from recognition." I stated, which was also the theme of my address, that "acceptance comes from recognition" Again it is a small misprint and I still believe that the entire staff of The Observer did a wonderful job in covering the event. I would also like to congratulate Joe Dickmann, members of the panel and the GLBT/Allied community for their commitment, hard work and love that was put into these events. All who participated have truly strived to make the spirit of inclusion a reality when others have lost sight of its goal. I believe that open discussion events like the forum will help make your university a meeting place where all can feel welcomed.As I stated in my address, acceptance is found in recognition. As members of the Catholic community all should look to the teachings of Christ and tradition of the Catholic Church as the foundation. From this support and love of all, especially to the least of those among us, acceptance can become a reality. Only through you, as members of the student body, can true inclusion be realized. Thank you again for your warmth, compassion and hospitality.
Michael YaksichDirector of GLBT IssuesBoston CollegeMarch 21
