Love out Loud! Proud to Be Out Week

Last week, the LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender) Resource Center sponsored its semi-annual "Proud to Be Out Week." The theme of the week was Love out Loud and different student groups from around the University held events celebrating LGBT life at UVa and encouraging students to be honest and proud of who they love. Events for the week ranged from a panel of students sharing coming out stories in the Dome Room of the Rotunda, to movie screenings and discussions to the highly-anticipated Drag Bingo party on Friday night.

While Proud to Be Out Week happens once each semester and garners a lot of attention and support for the queer community, there are tons of ways to get involved with the LGBT community at UVa throughout the entire year. Here's just a small sampling of some of these clubs....

QSU (Queer Student Union): A highly social organization, QSU is open to students from across the University, regardless of sexual orientation. Each meeting focuses on an issue pertaining to the LGBT community and gives students a chance to meet one another and discuss topics like gay marriage, adoption or transsexuality.

QUAA (Queer and Allied Activism): While QUAA fosters a social environment similar to QSU, its main focus is rooted in activism. I've seen QUAA plan vigils around grounds, organize UVa's Day of Silence and travel to rallies and activisit events around the country.

Sigma Omicron Rho: As UVa's first gender-neutral queer and allied fraternity, Sigma Omicron Rho represents a giant leap forward for UVa's LGBT community. Founded this fall, the fraternity gives students a chance to find a smaller niche within what can feel like an overwhelming University community.

Whether or not you plan to become involved with LGBT organizations at UVa, its so important to regonize the thriving community present here. The administration and student body are incredibly supportive of LGBT organizations and I feel so thankful to have spent time at such a tolerant and understanding University.

As always, feel free to shoot me an email with any questions!