I'm not sure how to react. Organizations, support groups, colloquia, and political and social events provide a range of opportunities for gay students and their friends to become engaged in the life of the gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgendered community according to their own preferences for involvement and openness. Everyone will come into contact with members of Harvard's gay community during his or her career here, whether in the classroom, on the job, or in the dormitories and Houses. Many people may believe that this is the first time that they have met someone who is gay, lesbian, bisexual, or transgendered. It is unfortunate but not unlikely that some students will feel uncomfortable with people of a different sexual orientation.
Conflicts can arise in such situations which are painful for all involved.
Consequently, many lesbian, bisexual, transgendered, or gay students may be reluctant to reveal their sexuality to other members of the community out of fear of misunderstanding, rejection, or harassment. Representatives from many departments of the University have volunteered to assist anyone with concerns relating to issues of sexual orientation. Such concerns may arise in cases of conflict, of being unsure of one's own sexual orientation, or of questioning one's feelings about different sexual orientations in general. Homophobia, or prejudice against homosexuals, is an attitude based largely on fear and a lack of awareness. It can often be changed by open dialogue and by individuals becoming familiar with each other's feelings and lifestyles.