Why do college applications ask about sexual orientation?

[skieurope]

<p>From the New York Times:</p>

<p>

The intention, admissions officers say, is to send a message: You are welcome.

<a href=“http://www.nytimes.com/2013/08/04/education/edlife/more-college-applications-ask-about-sexual-identity.html?_r=0”>http://www.nytimes.com/2013/08/04/education/edlife/more-college-applications-ask-about-sexual-identity.html?_r=0&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;