UNT student government considering same-sex King and Queen proposal

by Josiah Sorrels of North Texas Daily

A bill proposed by the UNT Student Government Association could give a new meaning to Homecoming Queen.

The SGA introduced a bill Wednesday that would make same-sex couples eligible for the election for the homecoming court in October, including the King and Queen positions.

Members of the SGA expressed opposing views on the controversial measure.

“It’s all about diversity,” said Christopher Passafiume, the senator for the School of Merchandising and Management who introduced the bill. “In the name of progress, it’s something that has to be passed.”

Passafiume, a hospitality management junior, said the SGA’s mission is to be “a voice for the voiceless.”

Brandon Nase, the director of campus involvement, voiced his opinion.

“Personally, I don’t see how its equal to let a guy and a guy run together,” said Nase, a senior majoring in general, choral and instrumental music. “King and queen should represent male and female population, not a guy and a guy or a girl and a girl.”

Several senators voiced disapproval of the bill on grounds that it would affect the other Homecoming court positions, such as Duke and Duchess.

Senator Joel Arredondo of the College of Arts and Sciences asked his peers to envision the new sashes.

“What would they say? Homecoming winner?” said Arredondo, a sophomore majoring in radio, television and film.

The bill was tabled for next week, but given emergency status because homecoming is on Oct. 17.

Many senators still had doubts about the proposal.

“The amendment is a good idea, it’s just not ready for public consumption,” said Senator Meghan Hudec, a criminal justice senior.

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