CHAPEL HILL, N.C. — The LGBTQ Center at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill has reached a milestone over the last year, as it celebrated its 10th anniversary and continued to strengthen its Safe Zone program, among other items.
A kick-off history panel took place on May 2, bringing together “pivotal agents in the creation and continued operation of the Center,” the LGBTQ Center publication Aluminate reported. Panelists discussed “roadblocks they navigated, alliances forged and accomplishments lauded.” They also shared their memories surrounding the center’s founding and its growth over the years.
An alumni mixer was held immediately following the panel, complete with Motown music, darts, foosball and pool.
The next afternoon a recognition banquet was held where guests enjoyed “Highlights of a Decade,” a short film documenting the center’s history.
The finale to the weekend was attending the Lavender Graduation ceremony where LGBT graduating students were recognized.
During the summer, staff changes included Angel Collie (assistant director), Taimur “TK” Khan and Amee Wurzburg (Q group co-facilitators) and others.
The school’s 2015 Triangle Resource Fair was announced for Jan. 30, 4 p.m., at the Student Union’s Great Hall. The event historically rounds out Ally Week. It supports people of all sexual orientations, gender identities and gender expressions.
The Safe Zone program sports 2,124 allies on campus. Each one must complete a four-hour training session and upon completion, is awarded a sign with one’s name on it, signifying an affirmation pledge by the individual. Allies include faculty, adjust faculty, staff, graduate students, graduate students/staff, undergraduate and others. As of Nov. 14, 3,346 allies have undergone training, not including those who received training outside the university. In early 2015, training will take place on Jan. 22, Feb. 11 and March 3. Other targeted training sessions include gender identity and gender expression, Feb. 24; faculty and staff, March 17; and graduate students, faculty and instructors, Jan. 16.
Contributions are always welcome to sustain the work of the center and can be made online.
info: lgbtq.unc.edu.
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