Queers & Allies celebrates ‘Transgiving’
Graphic courtesy by Queers & Allies
November 17, 2022
Thursday night from 6-9 p.m. in Jamrich room 3317, members of NMU’s Queers & Allies invite anyone to join them for s’mores, hot chocolate and cider and a few other treats while they watch ‘How to Train Your Dragon.’ The event was created by Q&A member Juniper Blandin, as a way to create a safe space for the community to hang out before the holidays and as a way to recognize Transgender Awareness Week, Nov. 13-19.
“I created this event to have a safe place for trans folk on campus to be themselves and really have a space for community during both trans awareness week and during the holiday session,” Blandin said. “Lots of trans people do not feel safe, accepted or loved by their families for their true authentic selves, and so having an event where they can be that and be around others who have the same experience is vital.”
Blandin said events like ‘Transgiving,’ especially around the holiday season, help give awareness to the LGBTQ+ community, the struggles that the community face and the support that they can find in their communities.
“It shows people that we are here for each other, that we are proud to be who we are and that we are going to foster the support and community that we need to be happy,” Blandin said.
Although the event runs from 6-9 p.m., Blandin said those who come to the event can stay for as long or short as they would like. In addition to the film, the event will have dragon-themed coloring pages and discussion time before the film.
“I personally know so many trans folk who aren’t out, who aren’t accepted, who are kicked out of their families for being trans, and we wanted to have this event where our trans family and allies could truly enjoy the holiday season,” Blandin said.
