Tuesday, I was approached to donate blood on campus. Of course without a doubt I agreed to do so because it benefits not just me, but it could save a life.
I then started the process of filling out information and getting ready to donate.
There was a questionnaire with about 40 or so odd questions about my health history with one particular question about sexuality.
I did not lie and I put down that I was a gay male. Soon after a nurse came over and sat down at the computer, she asked me again about my sexuality.
I confirmed that I was in fact a gay male.
It was then that they told me I was not going to be able to donate because of who I am.
Then, they told me I could have a shirt – like that was going to make up for them not allowing me to give blood.
I then said I have spent far too long lying about my sexuality and I will not do it again just for something that was supposed to be for a good cause.
I would think with such a diverse university as this, that having people on campus that discriminate you for what you are would not happen.
But I guess I was wrong.
Daryl Smith
Senior, social work
SUG • Feb 12, 2013 at 4:11 PM
So I guess we talking “Gay Blood” now huh?
Trevor • Feb 10, 2013 at 11:36 PM
The exact same thing happened to me when I was in high school. I was greatly disappointed at the situation and actually went to school officials asking for more background and history on the issue. They weren’t able to help much but I understand were they are generally coming from. I still to this day get upset when they ask me to go donate and I just have to walk by and say “I can’t… I’m gay.” It’s very upsetting. I wish I had the opportunity to have an impact on someones life so deep as this.
Marnie Reynolds • Feb 8, 2013 at 10:32 PM
The Red Cross did not come up with this law, but the federal government did back in the 1980’s when AIDS first came out; It was called GRID (Gay-Related Immune Deficiency). It is going to take courageous men and women to have this policy outlawed; men like Daryl Smith. I say good for you Daryl! It’s going to take time, but it can be done. You should try to get it published on the HuffingtonPost.com. This story would get more publicity and insight outrage with the public which could help get this law overturned. Huffington Post reports many stories on civil rights issues such as gay marriage and women’s equality.
Sara • Feb 6, 2013 at 2:29 PM
This isn’t an issue involving the university itself. The FDA implemented this rule back in the 1980s. This is simply the organization following the rules. Is it messed up? Yes. But we can’t give those running the blood drive hell for following the rules. This is a bigger issue than one little group discriminating at school, this is discrimination across the country.
Heather smith • Feb 6, 2013 at 10:41 AM
we have stupidly come a long way. no matter what they have to check the blood for anything. so it shouldn’t matter if you are gay or not. wee all have the same blood. and if I was dying orc needed blood I would not care if you were straight or gay.