Looking at Indiana's Religious Freedom Act From the Perspective of an LGBT Student

I'm pissed.

I have never been so ashamed to be a Hoosier. A state that is so beautiful and in my eyes, perfect. Waking up to hear that this horrific act was passed was beyond disappointing and upsetting. Indiana has made such strides for the LGBTQ community, such as gay marriage being accepted. However, now Mike Pence believes that he can take a simple freedom away such as even being served in a restaurant?

I take this act extremely personally not only because I am homosexual, but also because I work at an affluent restaurant in my community. I am concerned that a customer could ask for me not to serve them, and I cannot do anything because of this act.

It concerns me as well for the closeted members of the LGBTQ community who will not feel comfortable in their own skin and could possibly self-hurt, or try to conceal their true beauty. I believe that the bullying rate could increase, and many more questioning teenagers would feel as though they can't live out their sexuality. I was extremely fortunate because I was able to come out and be accepted by all of my family and peers. However, with RFRA being enacted, that freedom and feeling of acceptance could be whisked away just as quickly.

I do not understand how such a powerful governor like Mike Pence would make such a questionable act. I understand that it is supposed to be more of a religious act, but it also interferes with my lifestyle as well as many Hoosiers lifestyles. It's extremely disappointing that a place that I have always found home is in such turmoil. This story has appeared on CNN, Fox News, and even celebrities have taken their stance on Indiana's law. It's extremely embarrassing that our state would propose such a law and violate so many citizens.

I am extremely proud of who I am and will never stop fighting for equality and for the rights of the LGBTQ community. That is why I signed the petition against this bill, in hopes of getting it impeached. I want to be able to live comfortably in my home state and hopefully invite all of my friends and family to my wedding, HERE in Indiana. If not, I do not know what my future holds, but it could potentially moving to another state. I will fight against this act for as long as it's enacted, and I hope you will join me in aking a stand as well.