Heading into June where some students may feel overwhelmed about upcoming final exams as well as some of them are excited about graduating with their college degree within attending commencement, there are also some students out there that feel like their long-awaited time is over since June is not only about graduation, but it is also Pride month.

Pride Month is a time to celebrate the LGBTQ community, honor its history, and promote equal rights and acceptance for all individuals. This annual month-long observance brings communities together to commemorate the struggles and achievements of LGBTQ people.

Pride at SCC is more than just a celebration; it is an opportunity for students to find a sense of belonging and empowerment. According to Roberto Lopez, the Program Coordinator at the Gender Equity Center (GEC), Pride is often the first place where students can truly be surrounded by people like themselves. “It lets students know that they are supported by a community and often lets students feel inspired by the creativity and vibrancy of a visible queer community,” said Lopez.

To ensure the well-being and success of LGBTQ students, SCC offers significant resources through the Gender Equity Center. Students can meet one-on-one with Lopez to discuss any issues they may be facing and receive referrals for LGBTQ-friendly clinics, off-campus therapy providers, housing groups, STI testing locations and resources on coming out. The center also provides access to books on gender and sexuality through the campus library and offers counseling services with therapists who are affirming LGBTQ identities. In addition, the Title IX coordinator is available as a resource for students concerned about gender-based discrimination or bias incidents.
When asked about the significance of pride, Lopez shared, “For me, pride is a time of year to celebrate queer and trans joy as well as affirm my connection to the LGBTQ+ community.[…] Pride for me is a reminder that despite those heartbreaking realities, our community is place of joy. It helps me remember that across history and efforts to erase queer experiences, people have found ways to affirm living freely, resisting erasure, and organizing against institutional violence. Pride is a way for us to come together and celebrate survival.”
Lopez also pointed out how people can support the LGBTQ community during Pride month, “I think allies can support Pride, by donating to community organizations. In Seattle, groups like Lavender Rights Project and API Chaya provide housing, legal support and survivor support groups along with emergency financial support to queer communities.” Lopez then continued, “It’s also a great time to commit to educating yourself on LGBT+ topics whether by selecting a book (there’s options in the library and GEC) or following LGBTQ+ content creators on social media. Getting familiar with queer perspectives will help allies be aware of issues facing the community and potentially break down their own biases around gender and sexuality.”
Looking toward the future, SCC is committed to fostering a strong LGBTQ community. The college is actively working on its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion strategic plan and considering integrating identity centers that cater to marginalized students, including LGBTQ and BIPOC communities. These centers would provide community-building events, academic cohorts and job placement partnerships to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all students.
SCC is organizing a range of events to celebrate Pride Month. The SCC Pride Fair, an on-campus pride event, took place on June 7, offering students an opportunity to come together, express themselves and celebrate queer and trans joy as well as games, music and snacks were provided. Students are also being encouraged to participate in the Seattle Pride Parade on June 25, Latinx Pride on July 15, and NW Black Pride on August 9. Those interested in attending these events can contact [email protected] for more information.
Pride Month in Seattle offers a variety of events to honor the LGBTQ community. Some of the notable events include the Celebrate Pride at Shoreline Farmers Market on June 10, Trans Pride at Volunteer Park Amphitheater on June 23, Seattle Latinx Pride at Plaza Roberto Maestas on July 15, and Pacific Northwest Black Pride at POCAAN from August 9 to August 13.
As SCC continues to foster an inclusive and supportive environment for LGBTQ students, Pride Month serves as a reminder of the importance of celebrating and standing together as a community. With ongoing efforts, SCC aims to ensure that the future of the LGBTQ community on campus remains bright as well as empowering.