The Carleton University community should be doing more to support the voices of its LGBT+ students.
Carleton University’s Gender and Sexuality Resources Centre (GSRC) recently hosted a Rainbow Exhibit highlighting art and performances from LGBT+ students. Other Carleton clubs and societies should follow suit by amplifying LGBT+ voices to foster a more inclusive environment.
Holding events highlighting the work of LGBT+ students will help demonstrate that members of the community are not only welcome on campus but also seen, included and celebrated.
Only 36 per cent of LGBT+ Canadians report a strong sense of community. Hosting these events is an important component in helping LGBT+ students form relationships and social connections and feel a stronger sense of belonging in the community.
Showcasing the work of LGBT+ students will be a valuable asset for all members of the Carleton community. Learning and engaging with the LGBT+ community will help other students in understanding their peers’ marginalized identities.
As the Rainbow Exhibit confirmed, many members of the LGBT+ community at Carleton have something powerful to say. Other Carleton clubs should make more of an effort to give these forms of personal expression the recognition they deserve.
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