Lesbian, Bisexual, Gay, Transgender Resource Center

Student Response to Hate Philosophical Guidelines

On September 9, 2007, leaders representing MSU LBGTA student organizations developed guidelines for responding to the "Born Gay Hoax" program sponsored by the student organization, Young Americans for Freedom.

Student philosophical guidelines were created by exploring the question, "What are your core values about the treatment of people who violently disagree with you?" LBGTA student leaders and event planners suggested these strategies:

• Express pride, love and compassion.
• Educate.
• Practice nonviolence.
• Consider consequences, justice and accountability.
• Don't escalate, go to the lowest level.
• Promote honesty.
• Stress the dignity and worth of all people.
• Be open about your pain and hurt.
• Be patient.
• Seek deep understanding.

LBGTA student leaders have made a commitment to an ongoing examination of the philosophical foundation of their social justice work. These guidelines will be reviewed and reexamined throughout the 2007–2008 academic year. The Student Response to Hate Philosophical Guidelines were created by representatives from these student organizations:

• Alliance of LBGTQQIA Students
• LBGTA Residence Hall Caucuses—BRIGHT, PRIDE, PRISM, RING, Spectrum
• Same Gender Loving Students of Color, Internationals and Allies
• TransAction

Visit the "organizations" link at the top of this page to find out more about MSU LBGTA Student Organizations!