Poetry and GSA: Coming out

Published: october 7th

As I’m hoping most of you know, MSUM’s Coming Out Week is quickly approaching. The week after National Coming Out week, Oct. 17-23, is the GSA clubs aspiration to encourage students to “share themselves in hopes of encouraging others to feel comfortable with coming out, or their own gender identity,” Justin Braton said, recent MSUM GSA club member and transfer from Mankato state. Whether you identify yourself as a member or an ally, Coming Out Week is a gratifying experience for everyone. So far, activities planned and organized by our dedicated GSA club members and friends include: Chalk night, Coming Out night, and open mic night and poetry reading at The Red Raven, organized by Lacey Scheelk former 10 percent Club Secretary and Justin Braton.
In previous years, Coming Out Week has colored our campus with stunning sidewalk art and slogan’s. Citywide recognition was gained for the display when an act of vandalism drew the attention of The Forum, but recognition gained through such unfortunate means did little to touch on the intention of such an important week. The point, Lacey said, “Is to come to terms and accept who you are no matter how you define yourself.”
This years Coming Out week will be a landmark for GSA in the introduction of a new event. In order to link together two small communities in the Fargo-Moorhead area, Lacey and Justin have organized the first open poetry reading that focuses on the works of the Gay Straight Alliance community. On Oct. 21 from 7 p.m.-9 p.m., The Red Raven will be opening its’ doors to whomever wishes to share poems or stories related to their experiences as a GSA individual.
The event will kick off with original verse written by Lacey and Justin whereupon the floor will be given to whoever is brave enough to step up. Advertising for this event will be highlighted in the prior weeks Yellow Bicycle publication and on Facebook, but it’s up to word of mouth to really get this event kick-started. The 2010 Coming Out week at MSUM will be a success if students and faculty like you make it such. There are many passionate individuals working very hard to make this campus a home for everyone and proper support is needed and appreciated from the community.
Remember that these poets are your friends and neighbors, members of the community that make up MSUM, so come to The Red Raven on Oct. 21 from 7 p.m.-9 p.m. and show them your support! For questions or comments about what is sure to be a memorable and inspiring event, see GLBTQAI Poetry Open Mic Night Facebook page.