Beyond the Khaki: A Call for LGBTQ+ Inclusion at Texas A&M

Texas A&M University. The Spirit of Aggieland. Traditions steeped in history, a commitment to excellence, and an unwavering sense of community. But what happens when that community, so fiercely protective of its own, inadvertently excludes a segment of its student body? What does it truly mean to be an Aggie when the very identity of some is shrouded in secrecy and fear?

The Closet Within the Corps: A Personal Reflection

Imagine the weight of living a double life. A life where you proudly wear the uniform of the Corps of Cadets, a symbol of leadership and service, while simultaneously concealing a fundamental part of yourself. This was the reality for many LGBTQ+ Aggies who walked the Quad, ate in Duncan, and marched into Kyle Field, their hearts pounding to a different beat, a beat of fear and self-preservation.

One former cadet, grappling with his identity as a gay man within the Corps, confessed to lying, cheating, and stealing. Not for personal gain, but for survival. He lied to his buddies, his leaders, and, perhaps most tragically, to himself. He cheated the system to attain leadership positions, knowing that his true self would disqualify him. And he stole the opportunity for his peers to learn and understand the lived experience of a gay man, an experience that could have shattered prejudice and fostered genuine connection. Can we truly call ourselves a community when we force individuals to make such compromises?

The Stigma and the Silence: Why Coming Out Matters

National Coming Out Day serves as a powerful reminder that visibility is crucial. The anonymous hotline run by LGBTQ+ Aggies in the 80s highlights the historical struggle for recognition and acceptance. It's about creating a safe space where LGBTQ+ individuals feel empowered to live authentically, to dispel the myths and misconceptions that fuel discrimination. How can we foster a culture of understanding if we don't allow individuals to share their stories?

The Corps, with its rigorous training and emphasis on character, molds future leaders for both the military and civilian sectors. But what kind of leaders are we creating if they are taught, implicitly or explicitly, to reject or marginalize those who are different? When young men and women are made to feel rejected, insignificant, and outcast, how can they possibly uphold the values of dignity, worth, and individuality that Texas A&M purports to champion?

LGBTQ+ Aggies: A Growing Force for Change

Thankfully, the landscape is shifting. LGBTQ+ Aggies, an officially recognized student group, provides vital support and advocacy for queer individuals on campus. Aggie Pride, a non-profit organization, connects LGBTQIA+ former students back to the university, fostering a network of support and mentorship. These organizations, fueled by donations and a passionate commitment to inclusivity, are working tirelessly to create a more welcoming environment for all.

Key Initiatives and Support Systems:

• LGBTQ+ Aggies: Provides a safe space, resources, and advocacy for students.
• Aggie Pride: Connects LGBTQIA+ former students, building a supportive network.
• QEC & LGBTQ Aggies Events: Sponsored events promoting inclusivity and understanding.

A Call to Action: Embracing the True Spirit of Aggieland

The question remains: Will the Corps of Cadets be left behind as a relic of the past, clinging to outdated notions of identity and acceptance? Or will it embrace the opportunity to evolve, to become a truly inclusive institution that celebrates diversity and fosters genuine leadership? The answer lies in taking a stand - a stand for the rights and welfare of all cadets, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

Colonel Betty, and all leaders within the Corps, have a responsibility to send a clear message: Hate is not an Aggie value. Discrimination based on sexuality will not be tolerated. The leaders forged and educated within the Corps must be true leaders of character, embodying the values of respect, empathy, and inclusivity. To do anything less would be an injustice to the cadets, to the Corps, and to the university we hold so dear. It's time to ensure that every Aggie, regardless of their identity, can proudly say they received a quality leadership experience and education, without compromising their integrity or their sense of self.

So, what does it mean to truly support fellow Ags, no matter what? It means creating a community where everyone belongs, where everyone feels valued, and where everyone can thrive. It means ensuring that the Spirit of Aggieland extends to all, leaving no one behind.