In a community obscured by acronyms, the DU’s Queer-Straight Alliance (QSA) gives purpose and meaning to the term “LGBTIQA.”
DU’s QSA see students from every year and every major come together in order to support their lesbian, gay, bisexual, transsexual, intersex, queer and questioning peers.
QSA has a threefold mission: social interaction, education, activism and advocacy.
The QSA is more than a venue for LGBTIQA students to talk; rather, the group serves as a resource for students and their allies, according to John Gallagher, QSA president.
“It is a safe place where anyone can be themselves and find support,” said Gallagher.
Gallagher, a senior at DU, has been attending QSA meetings since his sophomore year.
Along with the student-led executive board, he is responsible for leading meetings and maintaining the club’s connection with the Center for Multi-Cultural Excellence (CME).
In partnership with the CME, the QSA seeks to ensure equality on the DU campus. Combating ignorance is one method towards achieve this goal, according to QSA philosophy. Club meetings include discussions and activities help further each member’s knowledge of issues relating to gay rights, as well as how to navigate the complex terms associated with community, such as the difference between “gender” and “sex.”
“We are especially in need of allies,” said Gallagher. “An ally is someone who identifies as straight but supports the queer community. People think that if you come to one of our meetings it automatically makes you gay or more feminine if you’re a guy.”
On the contrary, there is no obligation to explain one’s sexuality or gender identity, and it isn’t immediately obvious just how many members would actually identify as queer.
Members may find their connection in simply sharing the goal of welcoming those in the queer community and fighting inequality.
QSA is always looking for new members. It is currently accepting applications for the staff-position of secretary. To apply for this position or to learn more about the QSA, go to du.edu/cme/lgbtiqa. Meetings are held every Wednesday at 7 p.m. behind Jazzman’s Café in Driscoll
