Queers and Allies filled the Woods Lodge with gently used clothing on Nov. 5 for their third annual Queer Closet event. Students were given the opportunity to buy anything from t-shirts and coats to swimsuits and shoes for a donation of $1 to $5. 

The event was open to all students, with the main focus being inclusivity. 

“We know that it can be hard sometimes for people to go into stores and buy clothing because it may not fit or may not be what they want, so now they could just come here,” said Queers and Allies president Abigail Strassburg. 

Providing gender-affirming clothing was also a main purpose for the event, Queers and Allies secretary Cameron Jenerou said. For example, if a person who is transgender is nervous to go into a store to try on a dress for the first time, they could do so at the Queer Closet instead. 

“We don’t consider any of the clothing to be gendered. Just try it on, we’re not going to judge it. Anybody is welcome,” Strassburg said. 

There was no limit on how many pieces of clothing students could take for a $1-$5 donation. Students were encouraged to fill bags with whatever they needed, especially with the winter season coming up. Students were also provided with a space to try the clothing on.

According to Jenerou, the inspiration for this event came from libraries across the country that host Trans Closet events. However, Queers and Allies adopted the name Queer Closet to make the event more inclusive.

This event is hosted every year. Students can find more information about events hosted by Queers and Allies on the Hub.