As a gay BYU graduate, I am extremely concerned by their recent “clarification” of the Honor Code. I know the impact that these statements have on LGBTQ students. What starts as an official declaration that our lives are “not compatible” with religious principles eventually creates a safe harbor for hate, becoming the justification for abuse.
Reconciling sexual orientation with faith and family expectations is difficult under the best circumstances. Too many students at BYU quietly bear the additional burden of unchecked hate and homophobia from their peers and professors. Historically, LGBTQ students have not felt safe reporting abuse to authorities on campus and instead choose to suffer in silence.
I lived through that experience and can attest to the immense toll it takes on mental and emotional health. While I will be forever grateful to my closest friends who sat with me through the darkest nights of my life, I am deeply saddened by the thought that current and future students will have similar experiences.
I urge campus leaders to take swift and decisive action to ensure that LGBTQ students are treated with dignity and provided the opportunity to study in an environment where they feel safe.
Rey Johnson, Salt Lake City