Moorpark College held its annual National Coming Out Day event on Oct. 9, which aimed to create inclusivity and support for the LGBTQ community. The event occurred in the campus quad and AA Forum and featured various activities, including music, guest speakers, a photo booth, free food, and a film screening.
The celebration, part of the national awareness day observed on Oct. 11, was designed to provide a supportive environment for individuals coming out and to raise awareness about LGBTQ issues. Attendees also had access to various resources and information about LGBTQ support.
Moorpark College faculty member Alex Mercado, who attended the event, expressed pride in the college’s efforts to make the LGBTQ population visible and supported.
“I feel that events like this help bring light to the LGBTQ+ population and demonstrate how large, strong, and supportive our community is,” Mercado said. “It helps students feel comfortable in their skin, knowing they are never alone.”
The event continued with a screening of the film “Paris is Burning” (1990) in the AA Forum. The documentary digs into the lives of LGBTQ individuals in the New York City ball scene, highlighting themes of identity, acceptance and resilience.
Moorpark College student Katie Guardado also shared her thoughts on the impact of visibility events like this have on LGBTQ students who may still be struggling with their identity or coming out.
“Events like these serve as a stepping stone to coming out publicly,” Guardado said. “It can make someone feel comfortable knowing that the people around them love and accept who they are.”
Associate Dean of Diversity Tamarra Coleman continued the event with a speech reflecting on her experiences as an ally and the importance of creating a safe and welcoming environment for everyone.
“As a parent and a member of this community, I think it’s so important to create a welcoming space where my children and others feel safe to open up about themselves and express their identities,” Coleman said.
National Coming Out Day at Moorpark College provided a platform for both the LGBTQ community and allies to come together, offering support and fostering a sense of belonging for all students.
To learn more about Moorpark College’s commitment to supporting LGBTQ students, employees and allies, click here.
