Everyone needs to feel like they belong, in order to thrive. Unfortunately, BYU’s culture pushes queer students to feel like outsiders, to feel like they shouldn’t be there, despite how well they do academically.
#OUTSpoken #lgbtq #byu #lifeatbyu #queer

David’s found that being queer at BYU has been changing, with more students than ever connecting with others, and staying in contact with their families instead of being shunned & ostracized by them.
#OUTSpoken #lgbtq #byu #lifeatbyu #queer

Brianna first came out to her dad, during their weekly lunch meet-up, and came out to her family much later. While they’ve all been very different experiences, she feels lucky with how they reacted.
#OUTSpoken #lgbtq #byu #lifeatbyu #queer

What’s your coming out story?
#OUTSpoken #lgbtq #byu #lifeatbyu #queer

An impulse that people tend to have is to center themselves and their beliefs, which can and does lead to queer people being hurt by trusted friends and allies. As Ryan says, sometimes the most important thing is to put aside your ego and listen.
#OUTSpoken #lgbtq #byu #lifeatbyu #queer

It can be exhausting trying to find people who will support you, as sometimes those you find will hurt you, or you can’t find anyone for a while. Finding strong, genuine connections can truly make a world of difference
#OUTSpoken #lgbtq #byu #lifeatbyu #queer

“The more authentic you can live your life, the better you’re going to feel about it.”
#OUTSpoken #lgbtq #byu #lifeatbyu #queer

Something as simple as a pride flag, or a rainbow sticker, can provide support and show allyship. It signals to people they respect queer students and are willing to provide them a safe space.
#OUTSpoken #lgbtq #byu #lifeatbyu #queer

Brianna started exploring their queerness in high school. As they’ve progressed through their schooling, they’ve learned more about what they want in a partner, and continue to learn more about themselves.
#OUTSpoken #lgbtq #byu #lifeatbyu #queer

Dating culture at BYU can be stressful for every student. If you’re straight, you’re expected to get married quickly. Meanwhile, queer students aren't allowed to date who they want, or have to date in secret, while those with no interest in dating are mocked.
#OUTSpoken #lgbtq #byu #lifeatbyu #queer

When Color the Campus had a public demonstration to show love to queer students, there were people who protested and hurled insults, making students like Ryan anxious and nervous. However, there were just as many people who showed signs of solidarity.
#OUTSpoken #lgbtq #byu #lifeatbyu #queer

Ryan was nervous when he started to go out and meet people at USGA. By allowing himself to be vulnerable, he was able to find safe spaces and close friends.
#OUTSpoken #lgbtq #byu #lifeatbyu #queer

“Do what you gotta do, take care of yourself. Look after yourself, the University won’t.”
#OUTSpoken #lgbtq #byu #lifeatbyu #queer

Colter’s spirituality is complex, and deeply rooted in his past. However, he’s chosen to embrace that, holding onto the good parts while funneling out the negatives.
#OUTSpoken #lgbtq #byu #lifeatbyu #queer

Brianna found how much variation there can be in the people and culture at BYU, ranging from incredibly supportive, to quiet judgment and isolation, to blatant, outright bigotry.
#OUTSpoken #lgbtq #byu #lifeatbyu #queer

Beautiful radiant things.
#Outspoken #circleofsupport