Today, National Coming Out Week (NCOW) at Boston College will commence with a kick-off barbeque on the Stokes Lawn. The week’s events, hosted by UGBC’s GLBTQ Leadership Council (GLC), will include a number of activities on campus in the days following the barbeque. These include a “Gayme” night, Opening Boston’s Closet, Guess Who’s Gay, and a closing ceremony on Friday.
RELATED: NCOW Opens Doors To BC Community
For years, GLC has hosted NCOW to raise awareness of GLBTQ issues and promote dialogue on campus. By sponsoring such public events, GLC and UGBC offer a sign of solidarity with and support for those in the GLBTQ community who might feel alone or otherwise marginalized. That UGBC continued this tradition after the restructuring that brought GLC under the unified leadership structure is commendable. Given the University’s history on GLBTQ issues, it is at least reassuring that NCOW is allowed to proceed without obstruction.
NCOW is just one example of the high activity level of GLC. Out of all the departments of UGBC, GLC historically has been the most active in advocating for the community which it represents. Although students are largely supportive and the administration tacitly accepting, that was not always the case. There was a time in the not too distant past when students were ambivalent, at best, and the University was hostile toward even the existence of a group for GLBTQ students. GLC should continue to host public events like NCOW that will draw in passersby who might not otherwise engage with GLBTQ issues. The support that these events provide to the GLBTQ community is instrumental to breaking down stereotypes and creating an environment at BC that is supportive of all students.
Featured Image by Emily Fahey / Heights Editor
