"En mi mente, las obras que estaba leyendo en la universidad, todas tenían personajes gays o trans en ellas."

Alright, let's dive in.

When someone reflects on their college years and the plays they read during that time, they might be hinting at the diversity and representation in the literature they were exposed to. This person is likely emphasizing how the stories they encountered included characters who were gay or trans. It's about the visibility of LGBTQ+ individuals in these narratives, something that may not have always been the case in other settings or time periods.

Think back to the early 2000s. Or even before. Literature, theater, and other forms of storytelling often sidelined or completely ignored LGBTQ+ characters. But as our society began to evolve and embrace more inclusive values, so did the stories and characters we saw in literature. Colleges and universities, often at the forefront of social change, started to showcase plays that featured a more diverse range of characters. They reflected real life more accurately — with all its beautiful variety.

Imagine a college student engrossed in a play where the protagonist is grappling with their gender identity. This isn't just some side character; it's the main storyline. The student sees the character's struggles, triumphs, and everything in between. This can be incredibly eye-opening. For someone who might not have had much exposure to LGBTQ+ issues, these stories can foster a sense of understanding and empathy. They can also be affirming for LGBTQ+ students who see parts of themselves in these characters.

Let's talk about a real-life example. Take the play "Angels in America" by Tony Kushner. First performed in 1991, it was a groundbreaking work that featured gay characters and addressed the AIDS crisis. For many college students, encountering this play was nothing short of revolutionary. It wasn’t just a story; it was a window into the real-world struggles of the LGBTQ+ community during a tumultuous time.

So, how do you apply this wisdom in your life? It's all about seeking out diverse stories and perspectives. Don't just stick to what you're comfortable with. Read books, watch movies, and see plays that challenge your worldview. This isn't just about being "woke" or trendy. It's about expanding your empathy and understanding the rich tapestry of human experience.

Think of a book club. Instead of reading the latest bestseller that's safe and familiar, what if the group decided to read a novel with a transgender protagonist or a memoir by a gay author? The discussions would be rich, maybe even a bit uncomfortable at times, but that’s where growth happens. You'd be pushing your boundaries, seeing the world through someone else's eyes.

Picture this: you’re at a coffee shop (yeah, let's go with that classic setting). You're chatting with a friend who's never read anything with LGBTQ+ characters. They’re a bit hesitant, maybe even resistant. You tell them about how you read "Fun Home" by Alison Bechdel in college. It’s a graphic memoir where the author grapples with her sexuality and her relationship with her closeted gay father. You explain how it wasn’t just about the "gay experience"; it was about identity, family, and self-discovery. Your friend’s eyes light up with curiosity. They decide to give it a shot.

This is how change happens — one story, one conversation at a time. By immersing ourselves in diverse narratives, we become more empathetic, more human. And isn’t that what it’s all about?

So, let’s keep exploring, keep reading, and keep talking. The world is a big, beautiful place, full of stories waiting to be told and heard.