Gunnar in GSA

By Lauren Berry-Kagan

              When you walk into a GSA meeting, you might notice that the attendance is almost entirely female. No one really knows why boys tend to be more uncomfortable with being active supporters of the GLBTQ community, but it is a noticeable trend. There are a few boys in the Ingraham GSA, and I asked junior Gunnar Denton why he is one of the few and the brave. 

             “Contrary to popular opinion, I am not in GSA because my girlfriend, senior Jasmine Isaacson, goes every week as well. In fact, we both mutually suggested [to each other] attending on the first Thursday of the school year. So it was as much my idea as hers. But anyways.

             I joined GSA because I love gay people. And that's not to say there's something "different" about them. They're just generally very nice, receiving people, probably because of the harassment they get from some people. Because of this, they're nice to those who support them. But my view on supporting gay rights is this: GLBTQ people are human beings who can experience love, hate, fear, and all the other feelings anyone else can feel, and they are simply not ‘mainstream’. There are people, entire belief systems, that say being gay is a bad thing; they have prejudices against them. To them I would say: Imagine you were them. In a way you are, because there are groups who hate and are prejudiced against you. And they think they are right just as much as you think you are. But you don't like those that don’t like you, do you? No, because they be hatin', so to speak. Basically my point is: don't hate, cause nobody likes a hater.

             I think that being in GSA is an excellent way to support the anti-hate movement, to help promote equality of gay rights, and to give GLBTQ people the rights and privileges of the groups that are against gay rights. I believe in this because I believe that humans are all born in roughly the same manner. How is one person suddenly less human due to how they are? I want to promote that ideal. And that, little Ms. Lauren, is why I am in GSA.”

             The Cascade would like to thank Gunnar Denton not only for this lovely interview but for being in GSA. We would also like to encourage other people, especially boys, to drop in, and maybe stick around as a member. Being in GSA does not make you gay, just ask Gunnar and Jasmine, one of GSA’s token straight couples. 

             The GSA meets every Thursday at lunch in room 102 (Mr. Fontaine’s). They would love to see you!