Filthy/Gorgeous

This weekend, the Cornell Gay-Straight Alliance, in conjunction with many other student groups around campus, will be hosting the annual Filthy/Gorgeous program in the student union. This event is a large-scale University funded and sponsored LGBTQ party that features some notable people from the Queer community. With the lack of (good) gay clubs and bars in Ithaca, LGBTQ events are something to get riled up about when they do come around. These events serve as a means for those who are already a part of the community to engage further and helps those who are first joining the LGBTQ community to feel safe and accepted on campus. It is the visibility, safety, and support that these programs provide that makes Cornell the diverse and interesting place that it is.

Earlier this week, an article was posted in the Cornell Daily Sun by Christopher Hendrix bashing this event. Hendrix attributes many misinformed stereotypes to the event and its attendees, showing just how much his overt (and misguided) opinions can get him into trouble. While I do not know how those outside of the community have reacted to his piece, I am sure that the response is mixed.  Many are likely to agree with him, especially because gay issues on campus are not nearly as supported as they should be by the student body at such a liberal institution. Naturally, this article has caused somewhat of an outrage among those in the LGBTQ community on campus and has truly added a sour note to what otherwise was a joyous and exciting festivity.

But despair not, Supporters and Allies, for Cornell students are not easily defeated, least of all when oppression, stereotype and prejudice enters the scene. Ben LeBrun and John Connelly have written a rather strong reponse piece and Olivia Tai has published her own opinion as well. These articles attempt to defend the F/G event and to explain to both Hendrix and others exactly what it is that this program seeks to accomplish and how the Haven and Alliance student groups have worked endlessly to educate and raise awareness on campus throughout the year. In the end, if we want to have a party to celebrate who we are, then who could truly entertain a thought to stop us?