Facebook adds new relationship status options

It’s Facebook official: the recent launching of two new relationship statuses, “in a domestic partnership” and “in a civil union,” has shown the world’s largest social network’s willingness to recognize the LGBTQ community.

The Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation, an organization that “amplifies the voice of the LGBT community,” partnered with Facebook to make the change. With more than 500 million active Facebook users, the organization hopes that the added options will raise awareness for the LGBTQ community.

While some believe the changes are a clear sign of Facebook’s support of homosexual relationships, others believe it’s just a message of Facebook’s tolerance toward its diverse users. Alex Earles, Salina senior and president of the University of Kansas Delta Lambda Phi fraternity, which promotes an environment for gay, bisexual and progressive men, said it’s about time the additions were offered. However, he considers it a small step for the gay community.

“I don’t think Mark Zuckerberg is waving a rainbow flag around, but I think it shows you don’t have to be on the same lines or totally agree to be tolerant or accepting,” Earles said. The changes may also provide a feeling of inclusivity to the LGBTQ community. Joshua Williams, Kansas City, Kan., junior and vice president of the University’s Queers & Allies, said the additions are a step in the right direction toward better social understanding of the LGBTQ community.

“I think that Facebook’s willingness to change is a sign of societal willingness to challenge the norms and realize that not everything is black or white,” Williams said. The new relationship statuses may not be the push that leads to total equality. However, both Earles and Williams agree that it’s a positive change. “Domestic partnerships may not be legally official, but at least they can be Facebook official,” Earles said.