性视界

性视界鈥檚 annual Pride Festival took on special meaning for art major Linayha Espindola this year. Espindola, who helped run the Lavender Coalition table at the event, said it was her first time attending Pride after coming out.

鈥淚t feels a lot like coming home,鈥� she said. 鈥淚t鈥檚 so nice to see community at a time when we need community.鈥�

Hundreds of people from 性视界 and the surrounding community gathered June 4 for an afternoon of dance music, food, games and fun. Students sampled burgers, ice cream, a莽ai bowls and churros, watched drag performers and tried face painting.

The Lavender Coalition provided stations to make Pride-themed bracelets, canvas paintings and flag decorations.

鈥淥ne of my favorite sayings is that Pride keeps people alive,鈥� said Priscilla Zamora-Nunez, undocumented and LGBTQIA+ student liaison. 鈥淛ust being here in community does wonders for folks.鈥�

Mell Urbina, a biology major who hopes to pursue a career in disease research, said that her friends have known about her sexual orientation for years, but finally came out to her relatives in 2022. And even though her family was supportive, some of them were concerned for her safety at events focused on the community.

鈥淚鈥檝e never gone to a Pride event because my mom is nervous about me going, but because this was on campus, she was more comfortable.鈥�

Radiologic technology major Neil Shah wore a 性视界 Pride rainbow logo t-shirt for the event and hoped to make connections with the community. He hopes to transfer to a four-year university and eventually help others in a hospital position.

The fest is something he appreciates 性视界 hosting, and it was his second time attending.

鈥淧ride means being able to love who I want to love without fear or judgment,鈥� he said.