Drag Show issues ignored
By Sherrie Totoki
On April 28 in The California Mission Room, there were over 300 Santa Clara students sitting, standing and cheering for several cross-dressed individuals dancing onstage. The fifth annual Drag Show was a highly popular event, and many agreed that the Friday night show was quite entertaining. But unfortunately, the popularity of the Drag Show didn't extend to a panel discussion on homophobia the following week.
Last Tuesday, Santa Clara Community Action Program hosted a panel discussion about homophobia in Kennedy Commons. Some students representing the Gay and Lesbian Alliance shared their stories and experiences on the issues they face. Overall, most students agreed that homophobia is prevalent on campus. Words such as "gay" and "fag" are freely used without thought to their impact.
Panel speakers discussed how our speech is often heterosexist, meaning that the way we talk is often based on the assumption that everyone is heterosexual. The panel also touched on the lack of emphasis on lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgendered/transexual, and questioning/queer issues -- commonly known as LGBTQ -- within Santa Clara's core curriculum.
How many students attended the event? Maybe 30. There were empty seats in every row of Kennedy Commons, a space much smaller than The California Mission Room used for the Drag Show.
Why is the attendance at social events, such as the Drag Show, ten times higher than the attendance at discussions dealing with issues behind the performance? We are all busy with our classes, homework, sports and club meetings, but this lackluster attendance at the discussion panel on homosexuality should be noticed. There are numerous issues within the LGBTQ community at Santa Clara that are relevant to all. So why do so many students and adults not acknowledge such a pressing topic?
In our society, sex sells. Provocative acts in the Drag Show were entertaining. But when it's time to face the true person beneath the make-up, many are not ready. I know that everyone doesn't have the same outlook on homosexuality and homophobia, and many aren't open to LGBTQ issues. I realize we are afraid of the unfamiliar. I don't suggest that a radical revolution need take place after which everyone would suddenly know about LGBTQ issues. But there needs to be more education about diversity and acceptance.
With difference, comes controversy. Many are intimidated by controversy, feel they do not know enough about homosexual issues, or are indifferent. So, it is up to those with opinions to speak out and communicate with others, and let them know that to be different is to be human.
Sherrie Totoki is a freshman psychology major.