On Oct. 11, the Mt. SAC Pride Club and the Associated Students came together to host an open mic event at Founders Hall to celebrate National Coming Out Day.
National Coming Out Day is an LGBTQ awareness day that is celebrated every year to show support to those who are “coming out” or for those who have already done so. On this day, there is also support for those who don’t feel comfortable coming out or are not in a safe position to do so.
The event was hosted by Mt. SAC’s Pride Club who gave students the opportunity to tell their own stories and express their feelings. This open mic opportunity brought the LGBTQ community on campus together and allowed people to bond and connect with one another.
Despite not having a packed house, over 10 students and faculty members shared their individual experiences with coming out. Many chose to share their stories, but several students sang songs and recited poems that represented them as individuals.
The Pride Club also had plenty of snacks along with music playing as students walked in to add to the energy and celebration that took place.
According to Maw Simon, the pride club president, having an event like this is really important because it gives people a safe space to go when navigating their own journey. It grows the community of LGBTQ students and staff on campus. “I am more strengthened by the things that everyone has shared,” Simon said.
After the event, faculty member Cara Tan reflected on the event and expressed the importance of showing students that they are not alone in their experiences. “Being able to see yourself as part of a larger community is so important and it’s really amazing that we are not only able to share our stories but also become more of a family,” Tan said.
The Pride Club explained how they are always excited to welcome new students. They are located in building 26A at the Pride Center. They are open Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
