omoblog:

It’s a good day to be an alumnus of Abilene Christian University, as today marks the release of Voiceless, an unofficial (read: unaffiliated with the university) online magazine chronicling the experiences of anonymous LGBT students at ACU.  The ‘zine falls in line with a number of diverse publications that have popped up in recent years at conservative Christian universities, all aiming in different subversive ways to acknowledge the existence of and provide support for LGBT individuals associated with particular institutions that aren’t wholeheartedly affirming.  (You can find a list of these publications here, and I especially recommend OneWheaton.)

Here’s my take on these ‘zines: I think open, honest, face-to-face dialogue in real time is the most productive way to build bridges between groups who don’t get along.  I think non-anonymous stories and consistent relationships are more effective and persuasive for changing hearts than are anonymous articles.  But we live in a time in which it is not possible or safe for every LGBT individual to be completely vulnerable and honest about his or her story, and we live in a time in which not everyone is ready to listen to those stories with love and hospitality.  (This is the “not yet” I wrote about yesterday.)  For this reason, I think ‘zines like Voiceless are powerful, meaningful, and effective.  They give a voice to those who have had no outlet; they provide a safe, non-threatening opportunity for people to listen to perspectives that may be very different from their own; and ultimately, I believe they pave the way for those face-to-face, real time conversations that are most beneficial.

Although the ‘zine’s creators approached me with the possibility of submitting an article, I declined the invitation because this blog has already given me all the opportunity I need to find and express my voice.  Nevertheless, I support the efforts of Voiceless and encourage you to take the time to read it in its entirety.  The stories are honest, moving, and remarkably candid, and they represent a good variety of perspectives.  I’ll post further reflections soon, but in the meantime, read the ‘zine, talk about the ‘zine, and tell everyone you know about the ‘zine.