Cal Poly Pomona is celebrating Pride Month with multiple events on campus throughout April and May. Though officially recognized in June, CPP is getting a head start on activities so that more of the campus community can participate.

LGBTQ+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Plus) Pride Month was first recognized in 1999 when President Bill Clinton proclaimed the anniversary of the Stonewall Riots every June in America as "Gay and Lesbian Pride Month." In 2011, President Barack Obama expanded the recognition of Pride Month to include the entirety of the LGBTQ+ community.

Pride Month serves to recognize the valuable contributions of LGBTQ+ Americans and uplift their voices. It also commemorates years of struggle for civil rights and the ongoing work in achieving equal justice and equal opportunity for the LGBTQ+ community.

Celebrating Pride Month is important to promote equity, diversity and inclusion and raise awareness of the issues faced by LGTBQ+ individuals.

Here are some events CPP's Pride Center is hosting in honor of Pride Month.

Pride Formal - Friday, April 14 | 7 to 9 p.m. in Ursa Major

This event mimics a traditional prom and is an opportunity for queer students to "redo" prom and show up in their authentic selves without fear of judgment. This year's theme is Quog (Queer Bog). Though there is no dress code, attendees are encouraged to come dressed in their best swamp monster attire. RSVP with the following link: https://mybar.cpp.edu/event/8805048

Queer Chats: Queer Joy - Monday, April 24 | 5 to 6 p.m. in Rainbow Weaver Conference Room (Bldg. 26 Old Stables)

Have a seat at one big LGBTQ+ table for a safe, inclusive roundtable discussion about the discrepancies (homophobia, racism, transphobia, etc.) that exist within the LGBTQ+ community. RSVP with the following link: https://mybar.cpp.edu/event/8664770

'Brown and Gay in LA' Book Talk with Professor Anthony Ocampo - Wednesday, April 26 | 11a.m. to 1 p.m. in Ursa Major

Come attend a book talk presented by CPP sociology professor Anthony Ocampo, sharing his latest book "Brown and Gay in LA" and surrounding topics. RSVP with the following link: https://mybar.cpp.edu/event/8920567

Safe Zone Ally Training - Friday, May 5 | Noon to 2 p.m. in BSC Andromeda

Join this session to learn how to support the LGBTQ+ community. This event is open to all faculty, staff, and students. RSVP with the following link: https://mybar.cpp.edu/event/8664065

Lavender Graduation Celebration - Centers for T.R.E.E. Graduation Celebrations - Thursday May 18 | 6 to 8 p.m. in Ursa Major

This cultural graduation celebration occurs every year in May to recognize the achievements of LGBTQ+ students. In these celebrations, students are allowed to put any name in the program as opposed to their legal name or "name assigned at birth." RSVP with the following link: https://mybar.cpp.edu/event/8852786

You are also invited to download and use the CPP Pride Month background on Zoom and Teams.