The Hofstra Pride Network is celebrating LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning) History Month with a series of events throughout the month of October. These events are open to the entire Hofstra community, gay and straight alike.
In October 2010, the Pride Network and the rest of the Hofstra community mourned the losses of several gay teens that committed suicide. This year, things are looking up and the Pride Network has many events planned to raise LGBTQ acceptance and awareness.
“I think [the Pride Network] is great,” said Corey Abrams, senior at Hofstra University. “People who are homosexual feel like they are a part of something big.”
The Pride Network was founded in 2008 by Christian Fuscarino, and has since then become a huge part of Hofstra. Aside from the events taking place this month, the Pride Network holds weekly group meetings on Wednesdays at 8pm to discuss any issues that student have.
“We recognize National Coming Out Day to show our support and honor and congratulate those who were coming out,” said Marquel Warrace-Figeuroa, sophomore at Hofstra and member of the Pride Network. “We just want everyone to know that we’re here for them.”
This month, the Pride Network, Division of Student Affairs, the Office of Multicultural and International Student Affairs, and other Pride Network sponsors are hosting a variety of events that are taking place this month. Some events are National Coming Out Day, that already passed on October 11th, a “marriage equality in New York” forum on October 13th, Day of Dialogue on October 26th, and even a Pride Network Drag Show.
“Right now we want to give a show that educates people about drag queens”, said Warrace-Figeuroa about the drag show. “It’s more of a form of art than just people dressing up.”
Celebrate LGBTQ history and awareness this month with the Pride Network. For more information on the network and LGBTQ events, visit www.hofstra.edu.