Voices all over by Ruby

Voices all over by Ruby - January 2024 Scholarship Essay

Diversity and inclusion are important to advocate for in today's environment. Growing up in a segregated city, I’ve observed the negative effects of not being surrounded by a diverse and inclusive community. I often hear people using racist language and targeting others because they do not see a problem with their actions.

In my school community, there is a notable lack of inclusivity, whether it is the students or staff. Many people are closed-minded and choose to not accept different groups, this is especially true for the LGBTQ+ community.

I remember walking into class, sitting in my usual seat, and getting ready to do the assigned problem on the board. As people walked into class, I noticed a group of boys laughing. They walked by me and I overheard their conversation; they were using a homosexual slur. I looked at my friend and all we could do was roll our eyes in disgust. This was not the first time an instance like this happened; unfortunately, it was all too common to use such slurs and for the LGBTQ+ community to be stereotyped.

My close friend faced discrimination from many students simply because they didn't conform to traditional gender norms for males. I was disgusted that the school staff seemed indifferent about these issues and took no measures to address the hate crimes towards the LGBTQ+ community.

Personally, I always had people come up to me and make comments on how I didn’t fit their stereotype of a “homosexual” or how I was more chill because I was not “loud” with expressing my sexual orientation. I was uncomfortable with the environment of my school. Students who were a part of the LGBTQ+ community were frequently mocked, called names, or treated differently just because of their sexual orientation.

As a queer woman, I wanted a safe space to feel accepted, especially when my school community did not fully accept me or my friends. A close friend and I decided to advocate for the creation of a queer club, voices all over, outside of school. ‘Voices all over’ would serve as a platform for voices and experiences, such as mine, to be shared. While each of us may have had different experiences, we all sought to have a sense of understanding, and my hope was that this club would provide that.

The club is not exclusively for the LGBTQ+ community but also for minorities who do feel not seen. It is a place where people can feel included and recognized because our school hasn't provided an inclusive environment. Students valued a club that wanted to hear their story. It was a space that built a close family where we lifted and consoled one another. Students showed gratitude because there was not a community similar outside school. It is important to advocate for groups that are underrepresented and for voices that have been silenced. Promoting diversity and inclusion creates a space for people with different backgrounds to come together.