The Daily Collegian has about 400 responses to Chris Kovalchick's letter, published last Thursday, regarding members of the gay community and its "insignificance" to society at large.

To counter Kovalchick's letter, which exemplifies Penn State's current climate of intolerance, Allies held a press conference to address issues faced every day by Allies members and to spark a dialogue for change within the community.

Though what Kovalchick said disgusted some students, faculty and staff, he is not alone in his opinions, and in fact, it's no secret that many share his views.

And furthermore, many have praised him for his vocalizing his opinions and for defending what some consider to be human decency, which he found lacking with a photo on the front page of last Tuesday's Collegian.

There are many who share his sentiments; some more potently, some to a lesser extent.

The difference therein lies in the fact that Kovalchick gave voice to his thoughts.

Instead of whitewashing his hatred, as some have learned to do, he presented his ideas publicly for discourse, perhaps hoping to spark controversy.

Students should not be shocked that these feelings exist today.

Instead of discussing the Collegian's inappropriateness in publishing the letter, more focus should be given to a more pertinent issue.

What exactly can the community do to move forward with this startling jolt back to the real world?

The outrage instilled in some as a result of this letter should be used positively to negate the apathy some college students admit they feel today.

Allies, as well as other diversity groups on campus, should use this opportunity to educate citizens while we are still willing to learn and open to new ideas.

But it's easier said than done, and a devil's advocate would argue Allies and other groups would merely be preaching to the choir.

To instill tolerance in those who are opposed to what they fear is nearly impossible.

But perhaps we can strive for more understanding, and realize that those four people in the photo last week are people, too -- with feelings, family and friends.

That's what this argument is about after all.

It started with the actions of loving people and what they should or should not be allowed to do in a country that prides itself on freedom of choice.

Would you want someone calling a member of your family disgusting and a disgrace, someone whom you love?

Probably not.