Queer Behavior

Gay Man Freaks Out Over Colorado College’s Use Of “Queer” On Job Applications, Files Complaint With Attorney General

Colorado-College-C9532794

John Kichi is definitely not going to be a fan of this site. Kichi, 66, was job hunting online, and so upset over Colorado College’s use of the word “queer” in their online application that he actually filed a complaint with the Colorado Attorney General’s office. The “queer” in question wasn’t related to sexual orientation however, but gender identity. On the application, users are allowed to choose between male, female, transgender, queer, or opt out of gender identification altogether.

Kichi’s freakout put Colorado College on the defensive when it comes to the word itself and its place within their progressive policies. Colorado College director of human resources Barbara Wilson told The Denver Post that she’s “proud to work for a school that doesn’t just talk the talk, we walk it, too.”

The Post also talked to others at Colorado College who maintain that the word is used in the spirit of diversity and inclusion as it relates to sexual orientation and gender identity, and that it is not meant to offend. Other sources also made note of the changing meaning of the word over time, particularly how the LGBT community has expanded so much and that the younger generation are claiming ownership over the label.

Still, Kichi was having none of it. “I thought I was going to have a stroke,” he said. “It’s totally from the Dark Ages. If them including it on applications isn’t against the law, it should be.”

Don't forget to share:

Help make sure LGBTQ+ stories are being told...

We can't rely on mainstream media to tell our stories. That's why we don't lock Queerty articles behind a paywall. Will you support our mission with a contribution today?

Cancel anytime · Proudly LGBTQ+ owned and operated