Queer the Air, an annual spoken word and open mic event, was held by Grand Valley State University’s Milton E. Ford LGBT Resource Center on Oct. 9. Students performed poetry readings and shared personal stories about their experiences as members of the LGBTQ community.
The event commemorated National Coming Out Day, which took place Oct. 11. National Coming Out Day uplifts those who have chosen to share their gender or sexual orientation with family, friends and members of their community. The day also serves to spread awareness about issues related to the LGBTQ community.
“The purpose of Queer the Air is to create a space where LGBTQ students can be vulnerable and authentic, sharing their stories, experiences, talents and reflections about their identities and creativity in a welcoming and supportive environment,” said DL McKinney, director of the LGBT Resource Center at GVSU. “This event is not just a celebration of the vibrant diversity within the LGBTQ community. It’s a heartfelt acknowledgment of the courage it takes to be seen and heard. It honors the deeply personal journeys of coming out, and presenting our true selves, providing a stage for self-expression and connection.”
The event fostered a quiet, reflective atmosphere. Minimal lighting and casual conversation created a comfortable mood that encouraged participants to share pieces of writing, song and anecdotes focused on their personal journeys of self-acceptance.
“The amount of performers made me really happy,” said Jolienne Schutte, a freshman at GVSU. “It was so touching to hear people share these things, and have this collective space.”
The majority of performances at the event were poetry readings. Students showed vulnerability in expressing their experiences and exploring different aspects of their identities. Their displays of courage brought awareness to the challenges marginalized groups face on a daily basis. It also showcased their individual triumphs and the rewarding process of self-discovery.
“This event helps build a stronger sense of community, as we get to know each other in a way that’s raw, real and deeply human,” McKinney said. “These moments of connection don’t just end when the night is over, they carry on, fostering a spirit of compassion and solidarity that resonates throughout the academic year.”
Representation plays an important role in the well-being of students on campus. Without support from the immediate community, it can become difficult to find a sense of belonging. Many students can feel unable to express themselves if they struggle to meet others who share their values and experiences. This can keep them from living authentically and having a positive college experience. Queer the Air aims to highlight this issue, and offer a source of connection to LGBTQ students.
“Through Queer the Air, the LGBT Resource Center aims to weave a tapestry of belonging, visibility and solidarity among students, creating a powerful sense of community,” McKinney said. “The event is more than just a gathering, it is a lifeline for those seeking to connect with a grander community, sometimes for the first time.”
Events and resources such as this are valuable for those in need of a safe space and relief from both societal and academic pressures.
“Honestly, the LGBT Center is one of the reasons I chose (to go to) Grand Valley,” Schutte said. “It (the center) was something I knew a lot about because people around me were talking about it.”
The center’s upcoming activities were also promoted at the event. QueeraPOOLooza, a biannual pool party, will be held on Oct. 18 at the Fieldhouse. The event, which will be open to all students, will offer games, crafts and food. Additionally, Wear the Rainbow, a free clothing pop-up shop, will be held on Nov. 16. The pop-up event gives students the opportunity to have gender-affirming clothing. Donations for clothing and accessories are currently being accepted.
