The Office of Diversity, Equity and Belonging, in partnership with the Gender and Sexuality Alliance (GSA), is recognizing April as PRIDE month at Elizabethtown College with a series of events and workshops. Etown Does Pride is a month-long celebration of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, non-binary and queer (LBGTQ+) social and self-acceptance, achievements, legal rights, and pride.

While Pride Month is celebrated nationally in June, Etown is centering its Pride Month programming in April before the majority of students leave campus for the summer to best celebrate together as a campus community.

April will also feature Etown’s third annual Social Justice Fair on Friday, April 5, which serves as a vibrant resource center that provides students, employees, and members of the surrounding Elizabethtown community with a unique opportunity to learn about the impactful work of each participating office, club, or organization.

The Fair aims to open the doors of access and opportunity for everyone, particularly those in greatest need.

Etown Does Pride Kick-off | Monday, April 1 at noon | BSC Concourse
Join us as we gather for an inspiring kick-off event to celebrate the beginning of Etown Does PRIDE. This special occasion will be filled with empowering speeches, community bonding, and the creation of supportive messages through chalk art, showcasing both the diversity of our campus and our unwavering allyship. By openly standing together, we send a powerful message of acceptance and pride in our diverse campus culture.

STI Awareness | Monday, April 1 to Friday, April 12 | The Well, Bowers Center
Join the Wellness Center and the Student Wellness Advocacy Group (SWAG) as we promote sexually transmitted infection (STI) awareness and work toward fostering an environment of open dialogue and education regarding sexual health. Throughout the week, discover an array of valuable resources at The Well designed to equip you with knowledge about STIs, their transmission, prevention, and available treatments. This initiative aims to empower the campus community with the information needed to make informed decisions about their sexual health. 

Social Justice Fair | Friday, April 5 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. | Bowers Center
Discover how Etown offices, clubs, and organizations are actively contributing to the pursuit of a more just and equitable society and learn ways you can get involved to make a difference. The Fair will include a variety of trainings and educational workshops, a resource fair, and commUNITY circle discussions along with live music and free “Haircuts by Alex.” 

By combining on-campus and off-campus groups, the Fair aims to inspire a broader understanding of social justice issues and emphasize the collaborative work required to effect meaningful change. Together, we can empower voices for change and build a community that actively stands against injustice. Learn more about the Social Justice Fair.

Safe Zone Training at the Social Justice Fair | Friday, April 5 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. | Nicarry 207
During the Social Justice Fair, show your support by completing Safe Zone training. Safe Zone training is an opportunity to learn about LGBTQ+ identities, gender, and sexuality, and examine prejudice, assumptions, and privilege. On completion of this training, participants will get regalia that will show that their designated office, or residence hall room, is a safe space.

Etown Does Pride: Campus Queens | Friday, April 5 at 9 p.m. | The KAV
Get ready for a dazzling and unforgettable night as the Etown community unites to celebrate the spirit of inclusivity and diversity during “Campus Queens,” a spectacular drag show performance. Join us for an evening that celebrates the beauty of individuality and the strength of community. Together, let’s break down barriers and foster a campus culture of love and acceptance.

Crafts & Convo: Rainbow Rock Painting | Wednesday, April 10 at 4 p.m. | BSC Bird Cage
Come together with members of the Gender-Sexuality Alliance (GSA), the Stonewall Living Learning Communities (LLCs), and It’s On Us student group as we gather to paint supportive messages on rocks. These vibrant rocks will serve as wonderful reminders of the support and love we have for ourselves and others in the LGBTQ+ community. 

LGBTQ+ Identities in Anime | Tuesday, April 16 at 6:30 p.m. | Nicarry 232
Join us for an explorative dive into the colorful world of LGBTQ+ identities in anime! Hosted by the Anime Club and the Gender-Sexuality Alliance (GSA), this event invites you to delve into the diverse spectrum of characters and narratives within the realm of Japanese animation. With iconic representations and nuanced portrayals, this presentation will celebrate the rich tapestry of LGBTQ+ themes laced throughout beloved anime series and media.

Queeraoke | Friday, April 26 at 9:30 p.m. | Mosaic House
As we near the end of Etown Does Pride, we’re bringing you an exciting opportunity to perform songs produced by LGBTQ+ artists. Let your inner star shine as you take the stage and sing your heart out to your favorite tunes. Whether you’re a seasoned performer or just love to have fun with friends, Queeraoke is the perfect event to let loose and enjoy the company of the Etown College community. Please email GSA to register.

Visit the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Belonging page for more information on Etown does Pride!