Category: GLBT

The Glee Project

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Have you been watching The Glee Project this summer on Oxygen?  If not, you are missing out!  The premise of the show is that they are looking for a new character for the real Glee.  The format is sort of like American Idol, except the contestants have to sing, dance, and act.  It’s a great fill-in for those of us who are missing new Glee episodes over the summer, and it is also fun to get a peek behind the scenes of how Glee works.

Photo by: The Glee Project on Oxygen

Photo by: The Glee Project on Oxygen

I was particularly impressed with last week’s episode of The Glee Project.  The contestants were challenged to show their vulnerable side.  The directors didn’t just settle for the kids making sad faces, either.  They had the contestants name, then wear in public (in the form of a painted sign on their chest), their biggest vulnerability.  What could have been hokey was actually pretty moving.  But the thing I liked most was painted on the back of their signs: “U R Not Alone.”

Photo by: The Glee Project on Oxygen

Glee is a pretty darn entertaining show, but the good they have done in helping kids and young adults understand that they are not alone in their struggles is inspiring.  I’m so glad that the show is continuing its good work over the summer.  Goodness knows there are kids who need it.

Know someone who needs help now? Check out the Boys Town National Hotline.  Parents and teens (both boys and girls!) can call 1-800-448-3000 to be connected with counselors and other resources.

It's Not a Disease, a Disorder, or a Choice…

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This week one of my fellow Colorado psychologists held a press conference.  In her presentation she responded to comments made by Colorado political candidate, Ken Buck, comparing homosexuality to a disease like alcoholism.  Dr. Sarah Burgamy made some great points in the conference, but the one that struck me was: Homosexuality is not a “defect, disease, or disorder.” Dr. Burgamy continued: “Homosexuality is a healthy variation of human sexuality.”

Dr. Burgamy did such a beautiful job responding to the assertions that there is something wrong with homosexuality, that I don’t really think there is anymore I can add.  Other than to remind myself and others that her points are ones we all need to remember in our personal lives, professional work, and – perhaps most importantly – when seeking to assist the young people in our communities who are struggling with their own sexual identities.