"I have a Queery about...Being Gay and Greek" ft. Addison McKissack Artwork

Queer Queeries

Queer Queeries is a conversational podcast that aims to CELEBRATE Queer identity by bringing visibility to this incredible community and EDUCATE those within and outside the community about the unique experiences Queer people have in life and what has made us a fearless and fabulous group of people over the course of history. This podcast will cover the gambit of Queer experience and identity: from the process and need for a queer person to “Come Out” to Queer representation in entertainment to Racism and Homophobia within the community to living with HIV and the stigmas that surround it. Sensitive topics will be touched upon, but we believe that the only way to educate and normalize is to have these tough conversations with people who have experienced them first-hand. You'll laugh some, maybe cry some and, ultimately, learn about what makes us more than just rainbows, clack fans, and tea.

All Episodes

Queer Queeries

"I have a Queery about...Being Gay and Greek" ft. Addison McKissack

September 13, 2020 • Season 1 • Episode 13

"What was the hardest part about being out in a sorority?" "Did ever feel you were just used as a face of acceptance and inclusion for a place that wasn't that?" "What are the best parts about Greek life?" "How can we change a system so rooted in antiquated ways?"

On this week's episode, I interview Addison McKissack (she/her), who's a journalist and the editor of our show; not only that but she is also and Alpha Delta Pi alumna and the first openly gay president of the National Panhellenic Conference chapter at Texas State. Something that is very integral to the college experience is that of Greek life. However, the unfortunate thing about this system, is that its many antiquated elements (language and policies) that negatively perpetuate gender roles and heteronormativity. Though, as Addison shares, there are many positive elements to the Greek life--creating family that expands generations, the philanthropic elements--it can often be hard to acknowledge the good when the "foundation of the house" is made up of elitist principles. Addison tells her story of doing Alpha Delta Pi and eventually becoming the first openly gay president of the Texas Sate Chapter of the National Panhellenic Conference.

We also discuss:

Organizations and companies commodifying Queer and BIPOC people as faces of inclusion and diversity.
Traditions that perpetuate inherent heteronormativity
Exclusion of Queer people in the Greek system
Why the Greek system should still exist
How to make the system more inclusive

Follow Addison:
Instagram
Twitter

Organization of the Week: House of GG
Learn
Donate

Resources for Further Learning:

Show Produced by Nick Eibler

Edited by Addison McKissack

Theme Song written by Matt Gregory, Colin Egan, and Mike Hubbard
Produced by Colin Egan and Mike Hubbard

Logo Design by David Pavón