I am an eighth grade student at the Boston University Academy. In even my short time there, I’ve realized that the Gay/Straight Alliance is unnecessary and a waste of students’ time.

This is due to the fact that every student here is extremely tolerant. It is also because at BUA, we have a very open atmosphere where issues can be discussed amongst peers and faculty with ease. Where I came from, a suburban public school, there was no GSA because if a student had a problem he or she would see their counselor about it. I do understand some inner-city schools may have more need for a GSA.

I share in John Silber’s view that issues of sexuality shouldn’t become a part of everyday academic life. Students don’t go to school to be told, “It’s OK to be gay, don’t worry, we’re here for you” and be shown films endorsing a homosexual lifestyle. People go to school to learn in the fields of history, English, math, science, language and the arts. I don’t care if you are gay or straight, that’s your business, not mine.

The bottom line is, BUA doesn’t need an organization like the GSA because at the BUA you can be you.