The Gender Bending Ball, held on Sunday, Dec. 3,
was a night I will never forget. It was the first time the GSEC put on a dance like that, and it definitely won’t be the last. We used this event as a fundraiser
to help the GSEC continue its services
to students and community members.
In our society, gender is always put into two
boxes, male and female. It is what we have always known, and removing this
binary system would be like stepping onto the moon, something hard to imagine. Even I, while identifying as an ally and an activist, find it hard to remove
certain language from my daily life. Have you ever taken a few seconds to
realize what you were actually talking about with your friends?
“Hey guys, what’s up?” - Addressing a group of women.
“That girl over there is wearing the same shirt as me.” - Is
she 20 or 12?
“He asked me a question.” - How do you know if that person
wants to be called “he?”
“Is that a man or woman?” - Uh, how is that any of your
business?
It is hard to break a person’s harmful dialogue used on a
day to day basis, but it is a part of the AS Gender and Sexuality Equity Center’s
mission statement to spread this awareness. Being a part of this internship has
allowed me to be more inclusive and understanding of the people around me.
Every day I work on not conforming to society and assuming people belong in
only two categories, every day I try to eliminate the word “guys” from my
vocabulary when addressing a group and every day I contribute my time and
energy into the events GSEC puts on.
I joined this campus organization to be
more informed and share what I learn with others. I wanted to become an
activist so I did. I have always supported the rights and justice for women and
the LGBTQ community and now I am putting my words into action. The Gender
Bending Ball was just another step I had to take to become more knowledgeable
on the issue of the binary system. For weeks I helped other interns and staff
spread the word about this awesome event, and it was all worth it.
This event
created a safe place where everyone could come and bend their gender and enjoy
the night with others who supported the same cause. We all celebrated the fact
that people can express gender in many ways and accepted all who showed. With
music, food and amazing drag queen performances I danced the night away with
my fellow interns, staff and our guests.
Even though the event is over, we are still selling raffle
tickets for $1! The drawing will take place on December 10th and we
will call you to let you know if you won! Possible prizes include: haircuts,
one piercing of your choice, Satin hands set by Mary Kay, 30 minute Swedish
massage, $10 Beach Hut Deli gift card, 25 Bear bucks and 2 free meals, $10 T
Bar gift card, and much more! If you would like to buy one please come down to
our office in BMU 005 right next to common grounds!
Written by Adriana Curiel
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