Paint your Pride for National Coming Out Day
By Isabella Escobar
A double feature of events hit the Upbeat on October 10th as the Rainbow Room’s Paint your Pride event took place during a special Live at the Upbeat: John Lennon tribute.
During this vibrant Common Hour, students had the opportunity to design their own tote bags at the Rainbow Room’s table and could express their creativity using a plethora of colors. Additionally, students were given the option to pick out stickers to display support for the LGBTQ+ community, whether they identified as members of the community themselves or allies who wanted to show their support. Participants were able to enjoy rainbow bagels.
Randi Giebel, LMHC from the Counseling Center, emphasized the event’s significance in accordance with National Coming Out Day. “This event, Paint your Pride, is for National Coming Out Day 2024. It’s important to support and show love for everyone!” Geibel also highlighted the important resources available for students seeking counseling at Five Towns, making sure everyone feels supported during their college career. “The counseling center is located in Room 111, across from the library. You can come and schedule an appointment through phone or an email or you can drop by any time you want.”
Sage Hagelmann, President of the Rainbow Room, reinforced the importance of National Coming Out Day for Five Towns students and the community. “The Rainbow Room and the Counseling Services have been collaborating every year to celebrate National Coming Out Day; it’s a day to celebrate all types of LGBT identities and express yourself, show who you are, and celebrate. It’s a great time. It’s just very important for people to feel valid and know that they’re loved. It’s very important to celebrate and continue to fight for queer rights.” The Rainbow Room meets on Thursdays during Common Hour, and their first meeting will be held on October 24th in Room 203.
Throughout the Rainbow Room event, students enjoyed performances from Five Towns music students and faculty, featuring classic hits from John Lennon and the Beatles to celebrate John Lennon’s birthday.
Students can tune in to the FTC Sound Stream to listen to the music from Live at The Upbeat and are encouraged to check their emails for more events going on around campus.
