After years of work by the Lethbridge College Students Association’s LGBTQ+ club in tandem with the college’s executive team, the college now has a space for its community to gather and socialize.
Zachary Wigand, the vice president of the LCSA LGBTQ+ club, was the one to cut the ribbon to the new lounge. He said it has been a long, two-year process to get the space ready for use, but he is thrilled with the end result.
“It’s something we didn’t want to rush into too soon. It’s something we really thought hard about the best way to do it. We spent months making sure we were doing this effectively and that it’s not just going to be a space that nobody will use.”
The space was made possible by a $365,000 grant from the Province of Alberta to fund mental health initiatives for students. Marlin Schmidt, Alberta’s Minister of Advanced Education, was present for the grand opening of the lounge.
“We believe that education is a right for every Albertan, regardless of their sexual orientation. This sends a strong message that every student is welcome on campus at Lethbridge College. The acceptance of Albertans from every sexual orientation is growing, and our government has done a lot to support the rights of the LGBTQ+ community. We’re proud to see this work continuing in communities all across the province.”
The college has made several strides in its inclusivity over the last year, including raising the Pride flag, establishing gender non-specific washrooms and marching in the Pride parade.
An on-campus Pride day held by the LCSA LGBTQ+ club is set for Sept. 19.
The Pride Lounge is located in room AN1717, a repurposed classroom in the Andrews Building, and will be open 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.
