Coming Out Day
In celebration of the first National Coming Out Day since marriage equality was passed nationwide in the United States, the Associated Students of Skyline College put on an event we called “Skyline’s Big Fat Gay Wedding.” We wanted our event to celebrate the accomplishments made in our nation through the Equal Rights Movement and we wanted students to experience an open, exciting, colorful environment of celebration where everyone can be who they are and marry the one they love un-apologetically.
In the quad we gave out cupcakes with rainbow candy strips to students who helped with a community art project. The art project involved students writing on different colored pieces of paper explaining what “coming out” means to them. Students had many beautiful responses that ranged from “embracing who you are”, “loving yourself”, “living a free to life”, to even “being fabulous.” We then used the “coming out” cards to make a rainbow on a canvas that is now attached to the window in the Associated Students office facing a commonly used campus walkway, for all students and staff to see. Students also had the opportunity to take “wedding” photos with their significant others or their friends with fun props to celebrate marriage equality, and being free and unafraid to be in love, or show your love.
Many students expressed their gratitude and appreciation of the event, saying the event was fun and that there was a great message to it all. For as long as we enlightened one student’s mind to something new, or made one student feel safe or comfortable, our goal would be achieved.
A few students from the Middle College Program here at Skyline College, for example, expressed their appreciation of the event. They said that just by walking through the event in passing, or by stopping and participating, they finally felt like they belonged and felt free to be themselves at school.
The event wasn’t meant to bend the rules and break norms, but to enlighten Skyline College students to how “norms” aren’t always relative; they are unique to individuals and peoples, and that no matter what, these individuals and peoples are all human. We are all looking to be loved, to be free, and to be ourselves and let our true colors shine on through.
#IamUCC
In solidarity with the Umpqua Community College shooting in Oregon that happened earlier this month, the Associated Students of Skyline College facilitated an #IamUCC campaign to spread awareness and to have a moment of silence. Skyline College students took the time to write heartfelt letters for those affected by the recent shooting and took individual pictures to stand with UCC. The letters have been sent to UCC.
To learn more, please visit: http://www.umpqua.edu/scholarships-donations
Showcasing the Diversity of Latin America
The Associated Students celebrated Latino Heritage Month with three educational programs that raised a lot of attention and curiosity in students, faculty and staff alike. With a focus on cultural awareness, this year’s student government wanted to explore the definition of Latino identity by exposing the campus to the rich cultures of Central and South America. The festivities began with a powerful spoken word performance by educator, poet and activist Paul Flores. Speaking on themes of urban culture and transnational identity for Latinos, students were challenged to think critically of the current social climate. An Argentinian band duo performed pieces of chacarera music and other styles, followed by an intense and engaging tango dance workshop with renowned milongeuro, Marcelo Solis.
The finale featured two live performances, and special guests from the community. Tarimba, son jarocho band, performed two sets of vibrant acoustic music from Veracruz, Mexico, leaving the Fireside Dining Room buzzing. Tabling groups included Mission Neighborhood Centers, El Tecolote Newspaper, and Carnaval, sharing information and resources with students. Colectivo Anqari, dance troupe from the South Andes region, concluded the month with a colorful display of traditional costumes and enthusiastic drumming, even getting the audience to participate! Special thanks to the Mexican Museum for donating two one¬year membership passes for two lucky winners of the Latino Heritage Instagram Contest. #LHMskyline
Breast Cancer Awareness
The Associated Students raised awareness for breast cancer on Wednesday October 21 in the Fireside Dining Room with a festive and informative tabling booth. Students wore pink ribbons throughout the day to promote the cause in their classes, and continue the conversation.
Informational brochures provided by the Health Center were available for students to learn how to take care of themselves and their families. Also, cash donations were accepted to support breast cancer research. After donating, students could spin the prize wheel for fun prizes, including wrist bands, mugs, and magnets, and also write a note of encouragement to someone they love. Women in the US are being diagnosed with breast cancer every day. To join the conversation and share why you are fighting for a cure, use #ASSCpinktober on Instagram.
Article by Dennis Zheng
The WRCBAA must also thank our host, mistress of ceremonies and Skyline College President, Dr. Regina Stanback Stroud for allowing us not only to dream but to actualize the goals of the organization. We had an extremely impactful day with our guest keynote, Dr. Shaun McKay, President of Suffolk County Community College in Seldon, New York. In attendance were Dr. Jowell Laguerre, newly appointed Chancellor of Peralta Community College District and Dr. Marian Shivers, Dean, Leadership Development Institute for the NCBAA. Panelists came from New York, Georgia, Washington, Arizona and California to impart their knowledge and experience.