Take your time, think a lot, think of everything that you've got. These comments, made against gay and lesbian people during two separate debates, offended and upset many students that attended. When I heard of these reprehensible statements, I felt unparalleled shame and disgust. I promised the delegates of the Mid-Atlantic State that mutual respect would be an upheld value at our conventions, and I am greatly saddened that I could not prevent these hateful words. In light of the recent school shooting in Santana, CA., I believe that we should all be aware of our expressions and actions.
Words can hurt, isolate, and inspire injurious reactions.
While I cannot take back the words or hurt feelings from our Congress convention, I can urge all of you to take a moment to think about what you say in the future. What we say has the power to inspire and injure, help and hurt, build and break. I encourage all of you to use your expressions as constructive instruments instead of destructive weapons. The youths who are at the greatest risk for suicide are the ones who are least likely to reveal their sexual orientation to anyone. Suicide may be a way of making sure that no one ever knows.