DENTON, Texas — As Pride Month progresses, the University of North Texas (UNT) and its LGBTQ+ student organizations are taking time to reflect on their recent activities, upcoming plans, and the significance of this historic month.
June was first designated as Gay and Lesbian Pride Month by President Bill Clinton in 2000. In 2009, President Barack Obama expanded the designation to Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) Pride Month. The origins of Pride Month trace back to the Stonewall Riots in June 1969, a pivotal moment in the gay rights movement. These events led to the first LGBTQ+ Pride Parade in Manhattan on June 28, 1970, and similar parades and festivals now commemorate these events annually.
At UNT, several student organizations provide support and community for LGBTQ+ students. One such organization is The Space, which focuses on trans and nonbinary students.
“We are a collective of queer students who aim to establish community with anyone along the spectrum of transition,” said Lilly Holley, former social media manager for The Space. “The Space allows for students to bond over their similar stories.”
The Space hosts activities such as board game and video game nights to help members connect in a safe environment, fostering closer ties and providing a platform for sharing gender experiences.
Another notable group is the A Team, which supports identities including asexual, aromantic, and agender individuals. Rylie Rodriguez, the organization’s president, emphasized their goal of raising awareness about these often-overlooked identities and their plans to introduce a Queer Café in the fall semester to reach more students.
LUNA, or Latines Unidos en Amor, supports LGBTQ+ Latine individuals. Karen G. Sanchez, president of the organization, highlighted the importance of such social circles in helping members embrace all parts of their identities, particularly in the face of potential judgement within the Latine community. LUNA’s vice-president, Itzel Hernandez, expressed excitement for the organization’s future events.
GLAD: Queer Alliance, known as GLAD, is an inclusive LGBTQ+ student organization at UNT. This spring, GLAD hosted a drag show to provide both new and experienced performers an opportunity to showcase their talents.
“Starting out in drag can pose challenges for newcomers, and we embrace individuals at every stage of their journey,” said Ty’Rianna Simpson, president of GLAD. “We strive to make space for students of all sexual orientations, gender identities, and expressions to feel safe and welcome.”
Across all these organizations, a common theme is the emphasis on community. Whether through smaller gatherings like game nights or larger events such as Pride Month celebrations, these activities provide essential spaces for LGBTQ+ individuals to embrace their identities and connect with others.
“Pride is a moment for all of us to unite and stand proud,” Simpson added.