My letter to Indiana Senator Lugar

Dear Senator Lugar,

I grew up the son of a Judge in a small college town in Indiana. When I graduated high shool, I left Indiana to go to NYU to pursue a career in the arts.

I also left Indiana because it wasn't safe for me.

You see, I'm an openly gay man now, but back then, well, Indiana wasn't a safe place to live. This might sound strange, because as everyone knows, Indiana is home to some of the nicest, most hospitable, and genial people in America.

But it wasn't the case with gays and lesbians.

I knew of one other gay person in my class and between us, we had a handful of supportive friends. I suppose I was lucky; being the son of a judge, I didn't receive the lion's share of bullying. But I knew I couldn't make Indiana my home.

I don't know if you can relate to that: growing up in a place you love, and knowing you cannot call it home. It's a special degree of heartache that is.

I've made Brooklyn my home for about 7 years since I graduated college. But I miss the community, the environment, and the sense of belonging you get in a small town that Indiana fosters so well.

Perhaps distance makes the heart grow fonder, and time forgives.

And yet, I read in the news the other day, that a young man of 15 committed suicide in Greensburg, Indiana. He was bullied for his perceived sexuality, because he was different. He was called a fag, and told he doesn't deserve to live...

Sir, it breaks my heart that in the 11 years I've been away to hear that Indiana hasn't changed much.

Since I've joined facebook, I've reconnected with a lot of people I grew up with. I've since discovered that there were plenty of other lgbt's at my high school. I wasn't alone! It's bittersweet knowing that now.

And recently, I've learned that one of my lgbt classmates is in Afganistan. I'm wildly proud of this person, yet, I can't imagine what it is like for them. It pains me that this person cannot serve openly.

It reminds me that things haven't changed much since I've left. Well, Sir, that needs to change.

When I came out, it was truly transformative. Someone asked me, "Gay pride? What do you have to be proud of? You didn't do anything to be gay."

However, I am proud, because it took a lot for me to stand up to bullies, to leave my home, to love myself for who I am.

And there's a pride that comes from carrying the courage of your convictions. That, if you reach out to people, sincerely, candidly, and humbly, you can show them how important it is to respect each other, no matter how much you might disagree with them.

And so, I'm writing the Senator of my home state. I'm writing you in the hope that, my story might persuade you to vote for the repeal of DADT, or to vote for ENDA, or for an anti-bullying law that will prevent another tragedy.

These are all great things that will make Indiana stronger, safer, and a better place to raise a family. From the water towers of Brooklyn, to the silos of Indiana, you have my word on it!

I sincerely appreciate your time and attention to my email.

Very truly yours,
William Croft Vaughn IV