1. Taking A Stand Against Homophobia: A Holistic Approach Presented by: William Rainey Harper College #naspa4e13

2. Presenters Dr. Ashley B. Knight, Dean of Student Affairs Dr. Monica Edwards, sociology faculty, co-coordinator of Harper Pride Club Kris Hoffhines, faculty counselor, co-coordinator of Harper Pride Club Ernie Kimlin, Director of Student Involvement

3. Case Study The college Gay-Straight Alliance annually sponsors an open-mic event in which participants are given the opportunity to voice their support for the gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgendered community. The open-mic event is traditionally held outside on the campus Quad; however, this year it was held in the Student Center lounge, a public open-area event space with a stage. After the event, student members of the GSA approached the Director for Student Involvement, who is the building administrator for the space, with a handful of flyers with various anti-gay comments written on them including: “Guys: Does the thought of being sodomized make you feel warm and fuzzy all over? If so, there’s a homosexual group right here on campus to help you get plugged in (pun intended).” “Homosexuals: Today, like all days, is the day to allow yourself to be defined solely by your sexual drive.” “Sexually confused? Then join the homosexual club!” “The homosexual lifestyle: The choice is yours.” The students told the Director that “these were posted all over the Student Center.”

4. Theoretical Perspective* Sexuality is socially constructed, thus… Sexuality is institutionalized, thus… Sexuality is a basis for resource distribution, thus… Sexuality is political. * References available upon request

5. Context/ Campus Climate White, affluent, NW suburb of Chicago “Invisible” diversity statement; new statement developed 2 years ago Task force survey on campus climate; variable, divergent ideas/opinions, no shared understanding

6. Harper’s Response (Holistic Response) Students actively involved - Pride meeting, student groups Meetings with college president, Faculty Senate, President’s Cabinet Letters from advisors to faculty Letters from Faculty Senate to faculty Student newspaper interview/Faculty Senate article Administration, police Letters from college president to students and employees Student response

7. Next Steps Student responses – voices, student-led process New semester Where we are now – we still have barriers What should be the next steps?