Bakersfield College held a panel conference on April 29 at the Levan Center where students were able to come and listen to speaker, Celeste Barrientos while also enjoying a meal. In this panel, Barrientos went into depth of how one can overcome the mental and eternal struggles of facing sexuality and being a part of the LGBTQ community as well as what ways one can feel comfortable facing these obstacles.

One piece of advice that was heavily regarded by Barrientos when someone is determining their sexuality was getting involved as much as possible and joining groups to see how one is never truly alone and can always find support in groups, whether that be with friends or even with professors.

Barrientos said, “getting involved whether it be groups, whether it be part of anything, organizations here on campus definitely getting involved and having a good communication and a good relationship with the professors definitely.” Barrientos also voiced the importance of how education can be a vital component in ensuring a person can push through difficult trials.

Another major topic that was discussed at this panel was the stigma of religion and sexuality and how one faces the eternal struggle of coming to terms with what one is taught through religion and culture vs. what one feels eternally. Barrientos shared her own experience going through this time in her life and how she overcame it.

A final matter that was discussed was the state in which current political leaders and views have been more prominent in their opinions towards LQBTQ groups and how more members who identify themselves as a part of this group are noticing the very different opposing viewpoints that people may have and how prominent some are in voicing it. Barrientos responded to this by saying it is important to note what matters truly deserve attention and how where negative situations may lie, positive’s may be found as well.