Northridge–The Pride Center will celebrate its Grand Opening Celebration on Thursday, September 27, 2012 beginning at 10 a.m. The event will begin with a ribbon cutting ceremony at the Pride Center, located at the University Student Union (USU), near the Student Recreation Center (SRC). The remainder of the celebration will take place at the Plaza del Sol and include a wide variety of activities.
“We will provide different ways for students to engage, learn about lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) resources and leave their mark,” said Sarina Loeb, coordinator of the Pride Center and LGBTQ Initiatives. “The celebration is a great way to commemorate the hard work and devotion of those who created the Pride Center.”
The event will involve an LGBTQ Resource Fair, treats from a candy and sweets bar, a live performance by DJ Ray Rhodes, the creation of a quilt that will be hung in the Pride Center, a video booth where students may record “coming out” stories or messages of support, and a NOH8 Campaign photo shoot with famed photographer Adam Bouska. While the celebration is a free event, the photo shoot will involve a nominal fee. The first 134 students will receive a $15 discount off of the $40 individual photos and $25 per person group photos.
“I am thrilled about the grand opening,” said Debra Hammond, USU executive director. “The Pride Center is an integral part of the USU’s mission regarding inclusivity.”
The Pride Center was created after two years of petitioning and planning by students and members of the LGBTA club. It is a space intended to lend support for LGBTQ students, faculty and staff. Members of the LGBTQ community can visit the Pride Center for guidance, resources and mentorship. The center also offers the Ally Program for individuals who want to actively provide support and awareness for the LGBTQ community.
For more information about the Pride Center Grand Opening Ceremony, visit pride.csun.edu or contact Sam Baker at .