October is LGBTQ+ History Month, a month-long celebration that occurs in October to observe lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer history.
To commemorate this month, the Human Rights Campaign Foundation’s (HRC) Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) Program established HBCU Out Loud Day, a national day of action raising awareness about Black LGBTQ+ students at HBCUs.
To learn more, read the message from Leslie Hall, Founder of HBCU OutLoud Day, an alum of Bowie State University, and current Ph.D. student at Howard University, below:
As the Director of the HRC HBCU Program, I am thrilled to share the importance of “HBCU Out Loud Day” and its impact on fostering safe spaces for Black queer students on Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) campuses. This initiative, created by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation (HRCF), holds significant value as it aims to celebrate the progress made by LGBTQ+ trailblazers and inspire the next generation of queer leaders. By dedicating a specific day within LGBTQ+ History Month, HBCU Out Loud Day acknowledges the unique challenges faced by Black queer students and emphasizes the importance of creating an environment that affirms their identities.
HBCU Out Loud Day serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of fostering safe spaces for Black queer students on HBCU campuses. These safe spaces provide crucial support, acceptance, and resources that empower students to explore their identities freely. By promoting inclusivity and understanding, HBCUs can create an environment where all students feel valued and respected, irrespective of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
Participating HBCUs play a pivotal role in HBCU Out Loud Day by organizing LGBTQ+ focused campus initiatives. These initiatives aim to increase awareness and understanding of the Black queer college experience, both within the HBCU community and beyond. Through workshops, panel discussions, and educational programs, students, faculty, and staff engage in meaningful conversations about LGBTQ+ issues, allyship, and the importance of intersectionality. These initiatives foster an environment that encourages dialogue, education, and growth.
HBCU Out Loud Day also serves as a platform to empower Black queer students. By highlighting the accomplishments and experiences of LGBTQ+ trailblazers, we inspire the next generation of queer leaders. This initiative encourages Black queer students to embrace their identities, pursue their passions, and become advocates for change. HBCUs can offer mentorship programs, leadership opportunities, and networking events to support these students in their personal and professional journeys.
In conclusion, HBCU Out Loud Day is a celebration of progress, acceptance, and empowerment within the Black queer community on HBCU campuses. By dedicating a day to recognize the unique experiences and challenges faced by Black queer students, we strive to build a more inclusive and supportive educational environment. Through increased awareness, fostering safe spaces, and empowering future leaders, HBCUs can continue to make remarkable strides in creating a better tomorrow for all. Let us join together in celebrating HBCU Out Loud Day and ensuring that every student feels seen, heard, and valued.
