A rainbow flag was raised last week in the quad between the student union and the library. The flag, raised in solidarity with Gay Pride Month, recognizes the diverse lifestyles that make up our student population.
The Record’s editorial staff fully stands behind the decision of the school to support all lifestyles on campus. Tolerance for all students shows integrity and the kind of progressive thinking that makes the Buffalo State community comfortable for members from all walks of life.
Whatever your personal beliefs, intolerance is unacceptable. This is an urban, liberal arts college that prides itself on its diversity, and this gesture is an appropriate symbol of acceptance.
It is a timely acknowledgment of tolerance, particularly due of the suicide of Jamey Rodemeyer, a gay teen from Williamsville who was bullied to the point of taking his own life.
The campus’ raising of the rainbow flag is a strong sign of unity at a time where the tolerance of “alternative” lifestyles is a key issue in a polarized nation. With the country’s focus on the Rodemeyer suicide, Buffalo State made a strong statement of support by taking down it’s own flag to make space for the rainbow.
While the flag raising was a big step in the right direction, we wouldn’t say it was bold. As our society becomes more socially aware and open-minded, it was an easy step for the college to take to show they care about all students, regardless of sexuality or identity.
Still, we should give credit where due, and the administration made the right decision by choosing to be a leader in the fight for tolerance.