The third-annual BBQueer, an event held for the LGBT community, took place at Big Bob’s Lakehouse Wednesday afternoon.
Though the event was organized by the LBGT, other students, supporters and advocates were welcome to participate.
“This is my favorite event,” said Mary Larkin, the program coordinator of the LGBT resource center. “It shows true support for EMU’s LGBT community.”
There were many other groups with representatives there such as The Coming Out/Being Out Support Center.
Though it is not officially part of EMU, it uses the campus and some of its resources. The group meets Wednesdays at 5 p.m. in the Student Center, room 347.
There was also a representative of EPEC, Eastern Pride Education Coalition. Volunteers of EPEC go to classrooms to speak to students about a variety of issues. The activities of this group have yet to start officially for the fall semester.
Currently, it is training anyone who is interested, in the Student Center at 4 p.m.
For more information, interested individuals should contact the coordinator, Justin Ford at jford23@emich.edu.
There was a third group at the BBQueer as well. It is known as SAGA, Student Alliance for Gay Athletes and Allies. Its mission is to help gay athletes get the same treatment and opportunities as others.
Maggie ManVille, the president of SAGA said although the program is for gay athletes, any member of the EMU community is welcome to join and participate in any event the organization might have.
“We are an open group,” ManVille said. “We encourage everyone to come. We want to promote awareness for gay athletes and allies.”
The barbeque consisted of raffles with prizes, and free food was also in abundance for those who attended.
Many students showed up and were given valuable information for future events being held by the LGBT community.
The event was attended by a number of individuals for their first time, such as a man who only wanted to be known as Panda.
“This is my first LGBT event,” he said. “I am looking forward to future events. It is very enjoyable.
“The people are welcoming, friendly and informative. I’m definitely coming back next year.”
Larkin was proud to see so many newcomers and supporters at the event.
“It’s nice to see so many LGBT people in one place,” she said. “It’s really important that we have this on campus. The students need to know they’re not alone. That someone is there for them.”
LGBT has a number of upcoming events such as “Outober.”
Calendars listing events for the upcoming “Outober” can be seen all around campus.
