Adolescence, for many in the LGBTQ community, can be a scary time, according to junior music education major and co-chair of PRIDE Emily Larmore. Finding that ones gender or sexual identity does not conform to societys norms is not always an easy discovery; however, it can be made easier through a supportive found family. Larmore believes this is what PRIDE is all about.
UIndy PRIDE is a safe space for people in the LGBTQ community, and those who want to learn more about it to come and just gain knowledge, Larmore said.
PRIDE hosts a variety of events during the school year to allow new students to gain an understanding of what they are all about.
Events range from game nights to educational activities, such as all-inclusive sex education talks and LGBTQ-themed conferences. Senior visual communication design major and co-chair of PRIDE Olivia Moor believes that the conferences are especially vital in making connections throughout the community.
Photo contributed by UIndy PRIDE From left to right: Jodie Lynch, Emily Larmore, and Jade Lynch march in the PRIDE parade in downtown Indianapolis on June 9, 2018 with UIndy PRIDE. Indy has hosted the annual event more than a decade.
By far the biggest event that UIndy PRIDE hosts is the annual drag show, which occurs every year in March. The acts range from stand-up comedy to lip syncing performances. All tips for the drag show go towards the Indiana Youth Group, a group that helps homeless LGBTQ youth.
Both Larmore and Moor agree that being involved with PRIDE and being part of such a supportive community has given them more confidence in themselves. They encourage both members of the LGBTQ community and allies to attend meetings, show support and educate themselves.
Weve had problems in the past where allies are like Oh, they dont want us there, were not gay so we cant be a part of it, but every single person is more than welcome, Larmore said. No one should be afraid to come to PRIDE because its a safe space for everybody, and not just for students who are LGBTQ.
PRIDE typically meets Wednesdays in Schwitzer 012 from 9-10 p.m.
We want people to come to meetings and learn and watch RuPauls Drag Race with us, Larmore said. This campus is just amazing. When people find out youre LGBTQ, theyre overly accepting, and we want the entire campus to come and learn more.
UIndy is home to over 50 Registered Student Organizations such as UIndy DM, Student Organization of Latinos, Delight Ministries and Better Together. For more information on RSOs around campus, visit: www.uindy.edu/campus-life/student-organizations
