The prestigious University of Chicago issued a letter to its incoming freshmen stating that they will no longer condone the use of “intellectual safe spaces” or “‘trigger warnings.’” This letter, penned by Dean John “Jay” Ellison, is UChicago’s effort to fully…
On Acceptance, Comfort, and Pride: A Reflection on LGBTQ Week at UCLA
It’s hard for me to say the word “proud” when it comes to my sexuality. I’ve always been impressed by people who seem to unapologetically embrace their LGBTQ identities. At the same time, I’m acutely aware that I’m still far…
An Open Letter to Lieutenant Governor Dan Forest
Dear Lieutenant Governor Dan Forest, While usually I would applaud the efforts of people who seek to counter discrimination and safeguard the rights of regularly marginalized groups, I would draw the line where such efforts enter the realm of insulting,…
Upcoming Event: Lavender Health Alliance Hosts Blood Drive
by Guest Contributor Austin Beltrand The Event: The Lavender Health Alliance will be hosting a Blood Drive at the UCLA Blood and Platelet Center during Thursday and Friday of 3rd week as part of USAC’s LGBTQ Awareness Week. The donation center…
The Gender Conundrum: An Introduction
Does anyone remember when “gender” and “sex” used to be synonyms? Language constantly evolves, especially during times of social change. As America grows more and more PC nowadays, it can seem overwhelming to keep up with all the new words…
Asexuality 2.0
Last year, I wrote an article affirming my identity as asexual and bi/panromantic. I included the perpetual onslaught of moments in my life where I was directly or indirectly made to feel that there was something inherently wrong with me.…
The Reality of My Home
When I came out to my brother, he couldn’t understand why I seemed so scared to tell him. To him, it was clear-cut: if I was gay, then that was that, and how could I be any less than perfectly…
Marina and a Dancing Diamond
A week ago, I attended a Marina and the Diamonds concert in Pomona. Yes, as one expects, it was a magical, transcendental, orgasmic experience. Being one of the most genuine pop artists of our generation, Marina never ceases to amaze…
Love in the Age of Alcohol: An Interview with Buster Ross
Sex, drugs, and rock and roll. Rampant immorality. Breeding grounds of future devil-worshippers, communists, and worst of all, homosexuals. All of these have been included in near-apocalyptic descriptors to American high schoolers of what they may experience, not attending Woodstock,…
In honor of National Coming Out Day
Artwork by Austin Wang To come out or not to come out — that is the perpetual question. No singular incident can define the collective coming-out of the LGBT+ community, nor does any one piece of advice seem sufficient enough…