March is Women’s History Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the countless contributions that women have made to society throughout history. But it’s important to also remember that women’s history is not complete without the stories and struggles of the LGBTQIA+ community. That’s why Lafayette College’s Gender & Sexuality Resource Center and OUT are proud to conclude Women’s History Month with LGBTQIA+ Pride Week, a series of events that celebrate and support the LGBTQIA+ community.
One of the key events during this week is the keynote discussion (Thurs., March 30 at 5:30 p.m. • Kirby 104 • MORE) with Noemi Uribe, MPH. Urebi is a queer Latinx advocate, co-chair of the Massachusetts Commission on LGBTQ Youth, and a health policy analyst at Mathematica Policy Research. They will be sharing their experience of religious abuse as an LGBTQ person in an un-affirming evangelical church and discussing the importance of affirming spaces for LGBTQ+ BIPOC folx, the dangers of ambiguity in institutional policies, and the power of storytelling to bring about change.
Another important event during Pride Week is the National Transgender Day of Visibility Celebration & Drag Show (8 p.m. Fri., March 31 • Farinon Atrium• MORE). This day is observed annually March 31 and is dedicated to celebrating the accomplishments and contributions of transgender and gender-nonconforming people. This year’s celebration will feature a drag show with performances from Hexxa, Majestee, Enigma, and Ashlyn Manhattan. It’s important to recognize that the transgender and drag communities are under attack in the US and they face increased discrimination and violence based on their gender expression. This event is an opportunity to show support and solidarity with these communities. A special presentation will also be offered by members of GirlUp! at Lafayette.
In addition to these events, there will also be a fundraiser for the Eastern PA Trans Equity Project. OUT and Kappa Kappa Gamma are co-sponsoring this fundraiser, which provides direct services to transgender and gender-diverse Pennsylvanians in a 16-county region in Eastern PA. Supporting organizations like EPTEP is crucial to ensuring that the transgender community has access to necessary resources and support.
As Women’s History Month concludes, let’s remember that the fight for gender equality is not complete without the inclusion and support of the LGBTQIA+ community. Continue to celebrate and uplift the voices and experiences of all women, including those who identify as LGBTQIA+. Join Lafayette College’s LGBTQIA+ Pride Week, and show support for the LGBTQIA+ community.
A full list of events is available at https://gsp.lafayette.edu/programming/womens-history-month-2023.