Dear Heather, Kathy and Wendy,

I grew up in Kennewick. Kamiakin class of ‘98. (Go Braves!)

I am heartened to learn that you three voted to allow GSA clubs in the district. I was an active member of my church, and a lively participant in student life, leading the organization of a Christian club. (That Youth on Fire club mentioned in the Tri-City Herald story? I was the founding Vice President and wrote the bylaws.) I was also active in band and choir, drama and debate. I sang at the homecoming concert my Senior year, and took 5 AP courses.

I came out of the closet between Junior and Senior years. This was quite a shock to many students, as I’d been so active in religious activities. But I realized I couldn’t go on lying. Many students, and even a few teachers were verbally abusive, and I encountered physical bullying and intimidation. One teacher—the leader of the choral programs at the time—took me into his office and told me “I hope God brings a ton of bricks down on your head so you realize how wrong you are. You’re on the road to hell now.” At the time, I thought this was par for the course—my church hated me, my family was crushed, many of my friends deserted me and humiliated me, so why shouldn’t a teacher (a trusted teacher who promoted me as extremely talented, made me section leader, gave me solos) take me aside and bully me? The insidiousness of institutionalized prejudice is that it makes its victims see their mistreatment as normal.

I started skipping classes, my grades plummeted, and there were many times I thought of suicide. Many times. I just couldn’t see worth for myself in the world. There was one administrator, a Vice Principal named Neil Combelic, who told me, “You are a fine young man, and someday you will find a place.” He didn’t know where that place was, but now I’m happy to say I’ve found it. I’m a successful arts administrator, with a great career and many friends.

Growing up gay in Kennewick was very difficult. A GSA would have helped me to find people who cared. I know a GSA will help many kids find people who care now. Thank you for making my hometown better for kids like me; there are many of them there, more than you know. You have made it better. Don’t let anyone tell you different.

Sincerely,

Joseph C.