South Korea is viewed as highly modernized from the outside. The country boasts one of the fastest internet connections, consistently ranks among the top in education, and is seen as a cultural hub with the rise of Korean pop groups and celebrities. But those who take a closer look will quickly learn that when it comes to issues such as LGBTQ+ rights, South Korea has no problem leaving certain matters on the back burner while maintaining a facade of security and strength. Rather than directly opposing LGBTQ+ issues, the South Korean government seems to ignore the subject altogether; it regards the topic as insignificant, paving way for unwanted homophobia and discrimination.
Stigma towards the LGBTQ+ community appeared at my school in South Korea, and openly talking about homosexuality and discussions regarding sexual orientation were rare occasions. Despite the existence of several initiatives addressing gender issues on campus, many were largely inactive and failed to shed light on the school’s situation. Like the South Korean government, the school was by no means against the LGBTQ+ community, but simply turned a blind eye to the topic. Unfortunately, I must confess that I was also part of the problem. I had the power to establish an inclusive environment and address the amount of work we collectively had to do. I had the opportunity to discuss this issue with faculty, board members of existing clubs, and my peers. I had the time and resources to make a difference. Yet, merely because I did not identify as LGBTQ+, I saw myself as unqualified to voice my thoughts––a common misconception among the majority of the students at my previous school.
Compared to the schools I attended in South Korea, Lawrenceville has students willing to sacrifice hours to create an environment where everyone is respected. Lawrenceville’s pride week is just one example of how the school recognizes and celebrates members of the LGBTQ+ community. During the week, students had the opportunity to raise awareness by participating in the National Day of Silence, reflect as experiences from LGBTQ+ students were read out loud in School Meeting, and celebrate as the pride flag was flown on campus for the first time in Lawrenceville’s history. Such events are clear indicators that the school is attempting to embrace change rather than disregard the issue.
“I had the time and resources to make a difference. Yet, merely because I did not identify as LGBTQ+, I saw myself as unqualified to voice my thoughts––a common misconception among the majority of the students at my previous school.”
To avoid making the same mistake of staying silent, I looked for ways to advocate for LGBTQ+ members at Lawrenceville and considered joining the GSA. But I was faced with another dilemma; despite the GSA’s description of aiming to “guide people to become more welcoming and better allies,” I was afraid to step out of my comfort zone. I asked myself: “What if I’m the only one that doesn’t identify as LGBTQ+? Is the club really open for people like me? Will they accept me?” Looking back, these were unnecessary questions but thoughts that held me back. And I know that many of my friends shared similar sentiments.
Fast-forward to today: I am part of Spectrum, an auxiliary publication of the GSA, and have managed to overcome my fear of joining the GSA. After Kylan Tatum ’21 and Chelsea Wang ’21 introduced Spectrum to Lawrenceville, I knew that this was my second chance––it was a platform where I could combine my passion for writing and determination to become an ally. Though we have made great strides in our commitment to seek the “best for all,” the fight for the LGBTQ+ community’s equality is still young and a work in progress. Last year, there was an anonymous Padlet for members of the queer community to share their experience with homophobia on campus. As I scrolled through the posts one by one, I was shocked and deeply concerned about Lawrentians who faced challenges on a daily basis solely due to their sexual orientation. Multiple students also noted the lack of care towards these issues within their Houses––a place where one is meant to feel comfortable, welcomed, and accepted. Failing to fully address these problems now and in the future will undoubtedly create a greater divide in the student body. Again, this is not something that only those in the LGBTQ+ community can stand up for. Whether you identify as LGBTQ+ or not, everyone is truly welcome, and everyone is essential in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights.
Originally published at https://spectrumlville.com on November 10, 2021.
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