This is in response to yesterday's letter to the editor "SpeakOUT fans should sit with the rest of students." The athletic department at Penn State has a strong history of homophobia. Coaches have been removed from their positions, players have been removed from teams, and people within the department are still afraid of being open about their sexual orientation. Our cause isa fundamental one. Displaying the rainbow flag is a means of acknowledging the existence of LGBTQ athletes and showing support for them. Many people are "tolerant" of difference, as long as they don't have to see it, experience it or hear about it. Until a climate of affirmation of all people exists, SpeakOut will continue to support those who experience discrimination, prejudice, intolerance and hate, whether it is personally or institutionally.