The Queer Creating Community Reception will take place in the Kate Buchanan Room on Thursday Oct. 9 at 5 p.m. offering new students a chance to explore the resources and meet the students, staff and faculty allies that are here to support them.
As a continuation of welcoming and education the Eric Rofes Center is hosting Queer Fair, on Friday, Oct. 10, to give students the opportunity to get involved in some of the existing clubs and organizations in the community.
Students, staff and faculty can also learn about the gender-neutral housing and bathrooms that are now offered on campus. The newly remolded section of Nelson Hall East now offers a gender-neutral bathroom, as does the Multicultural Center.
The Queer Student Union plans to be on the U.C. quad as a part of the Queer Fair between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Maureen Walsch, a second-year student, said that being involved with the Queer Student Union was one of the first things she did when she came to Humboldt State. “I got to know the people in the Queer Student Union and make friends who have helped me get through hard times and pass chemistry. Being apart of the Queer Student Union gives me an outlet to support the queer community.”
Tim’m West, a lecturer in the World Languages and Culture Department, will be hosting, The Front Porch on Friday, Oct. 10 at 7 p.m. in the Kate Buchanan Room. A multi-genre artistic set will delve into a powerful call and response-like experience that speaks to the power of visibility, not just of LGBT people, but also their allies, particularly across communities of color. The Front Porch is a cozy atmosphere for sharing, first through a brief open mic set, followed by Hip Hop, spoken word, and instrumental music of feature artists.
On Saturday, Oct. 11, at 8p.m. Mangos with Chili will be performing their Queer Borderlands Tour, self-described as a “floating cabaret of queer and trans people of color bliss, dreams, sweat, sweets and nightmares.”
The whirlwind of events continues the following week with the 6th Annual Q-Fest. The Q-Fest will be screening eight lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender films Oct. 16 – 18. As a kick-off to the films, there will be a Chocolate Reception at 4 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 16 in the Kate Buchanan Room complete with a chocolate wedding cake to celebrate and support gay marriage.
A Jihad for Love is the keynote film for Q-Fest. Filmmaker and Director Parvez Sharma will be present to discuss the film that allows lesbian and gay Muslims to tell the stories of Islam.
Student James Hudson said that as an ally of the Queer community participating in these events has always been really important to him. He hopes that people realize that celebrating the Queer community is about celebrating equality.
For a complete schedule of events, visit the Multicultural Center