The only dumb question is the question you don't ask

I just discovered this really awesome website - nodumbquestions.org.  The website serves as a forum for people to post LGBTQ-related questions, and others can post their answers or share their own story.  Watching videos of people sharing their stories was my favorite part of the site, and is very similar to watching It Gets Better videos.  This website initiated from the film, No Dumb Questions, which has been used as a tool to spark dialogue among families, in the workplace and school settings, and within religious communities.  The film can be viewed for free at www.nodumbquestions.com and it can also be purchased.

I am excited to have stumbled upon this site because it reminds me of the importance of open dialogue.  Many topics are considered taboo in society and there is not enough encouragement to discuss things that we do not understand or that make us feel uncomfortable.  I recently had an hour long discussion with several friends and acquaintances in which they asked me a variety of questions related to LGBTQ issues.  Questions ranged from "do you have to be transgender to be gay" to "is sexual orientation more biological or more related to the environment," to "did you always know you were a lesbian," etc.  While I am not comfortable being the center of attention, I am thankful that these individuals felt comfortable enough to ask their questions.  The only way we are able to understand the path that another walks is to allow them to paint a picture of that path through dialogue.  If you know someone who is LGBTQ – a friend, family member, co-worker, classmate – start a dialogue with them (in a respectful manner of course).  If you have questions – ASK.  This will be more beneficial to you (and to them) than you realize.