Friends & Allies is one of Kent State’s newest student organizations. Founded in 2003 by alumna Shar Fish, the group’s mission is to unite the LGBT and straight communities. They work to rid the campus and community of homophobia and oppression toward the LGBT community. At the meetings, the group organizes events and conducts discussions on a range of issues from gay marriage to how to be a good friend to LGBT people.

“We discuss things such as voting rights or just anything of interest happening,” the group’s president Jen Wihebrink says. “We’ll talk about issues going on in our lives or different things going on in the country.

“If people joined the club, it would get them out and open and accepting,” she continues. “It will help bring acceptance into their lives and give them an understanding and acceptance of what LBGT people go through. Hopefully, it will also help them understand their own sexuality.”

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