Oregon State University - Beaver Yearbook (Corvallis, OR)

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National Coming Out Day and homework for the next twenty years made the day bright for the Pride Center Grand Opening National Coming Out Day ended with a hang on campus this year. On October 11. the Pride Center celebrated their grand opening of a brand new building on official National Coming Out Day. Under a tent outside of the newly renovated 1940 s era bungalow on A avenue, the Pride Center threw a huge party with speakers coming from across the nation to welcome the third center of its type in Oregon. In her keynote address Kathleen Saadat, a Portland based civil rights activist, gave the crowd homework for the next 20 years. She challenged students, faculty, staff, and community members to become activists... move out of [their] comfort .one daily... make teachable moments out of off color jokes.' Roey Thorpe, a second keynote speaker of the evening, also gave homework. First, she said, get involved politically, because everyone can make a difference. Second, she encouraged students to defend their own education, break down social and political barriers and learn all they can to support and understand everyone. Each of the speakers commented on their pride in the Oregon State campus and community. Because of what they’ve done for the soul and spirit of our community,' in Larry Roper s words, the Pride Center is a place worth being proud of, as a place where understanding is taught to the campus and community. The Pride Center opening was truly a proud day in the lives of many people. Luke Sugie and Grctchcn Bates, the External and Internal Coordinators, respectively, of the Pride center this year beamed with pride at the cutting of the ribbon to officially open the house by President Ray. After the ribbon was cut people were able to simply wander through the center. ’’Basking in the joy of (the) place, said by Deb Burke. Young children also joined in the festivities. Over a dinner provided by the center. The Sissy Duckling, a book that enforces values of acceptance and understanding of all people, was read to some of the young children. The center emphasizes a secure setting for gay, lesbian, bisexual, transsexual, and allied students with plenty of information and support services for students and community members of OSU. Through being a visible part of the campus community and putting on events to educate the public the Pride Center will promote understanding and acceptance of the LBGT community. Story by Ashley Maier 16 Fall Term

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 Roaming the crowd throughout the concert, Meghan Bafigo, with voter registra-clipboard in hand, passes it off to a student whom she has encouraged to get involved with the election and have their voice heard. Photo by Honk Hirsch 5.000 Loud 15

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Above: Andrew Murison. Awbrey Willet, Jaiden Charlton, and Luke Sugie recieve awards for their parts in bringing the Pride Center together. Photo by Lea McVey