For Nat Betancourt, raising the LGBTQ flag in front of Langsdorf Hall this week was significant, especially during the pandemic, because it affirms a consistent message: LGBTQ+ people are valued at Cal State Fullerton.
“We might not be on campus physically right now, but that does not take away from the message,” Betancourt, the LGBT Queer Resource Center coordinator at CSUF, said. “It is impactful to our community to continue to be visible and outspoken about that message, especially as many political and social issues are impacting the rights of the LGBTQ+ community nationwide.”
The flag was raised during an informal ceremony Monday, Oct. 12, as part of LGBTQ History Month and National Coming Out Week.
The CSUF LGBTQ flag boasts eight stripes — two additional black and brown stripes representing people of color within the LGBTQ community. National Coming Out Day was Oct. 11 and is aimed at bringing awareness and recognition for the LGBTQ community.
Betancourt said that these days of observation are about resiliency.
“These are tough times right now, and I know the future is uncertain, and our present circumstances are incredibly challenging, but for many, these feelings are not unfamiliar,” she said. “Our queer and trans mentors and leaders also know this struggle all too well … I hope our community can take comfort not only in the strength of the shoulders on which they stand but in their strength within to continue to persevere.”
The LGBT Queer Resource Center is actively hosting programming during the pandemic. Students can follow on Instagram @lgbtq.csuf to keep up to date with programming, as well as visit the center’s website at https://www.fullerton.edu/lgbtq/. There is also a virtual center via Discord, and students interested in joining can register at tinyurl.com/CSUFLGBTQ-RCDiscord.