With graduation season upon us, the University of Utah’s division for Equity, Diversity, & Inclusion is preparing to host events celebrating the culmination of academic achievement and success of scores of students. In addition to the division’s main graduation ceremony, there is also a ceremony dedicated specifically for individuals of the LGBTQIA+ campus community.
Lavender Graduation is an annual ceremony conducted on numerous campuses to honor graduating Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Questioning, Intersex, Asexual/Aromantic, and Ally students. Traditionally held the week of general commencement, The U’s Lavender Graduation acknowledges and celebrates LGBTQIA+ student achievements and contributions to the university.
“This reality has become even more apparent in today’s often harsh political climate.”
For many students, this event represents an opportunity to convene with members of a community that has faced many challenges from various sources throughout their lives. This reality has become even more apparent in today’s often harsh political climate.
“In a year where we have seen an assault on LGBTQ rights across the country, Lavender Graduation is more important than ever before,” said Harry Hawkins, director of the U’s LGBT Resource Center. “The celebration and visibility–not erasure–of LGBTQ people in our spaces are needed. As a graduate participating in the ceremony is that general sense that you made it despite all that was thrown at you, and you may not only be the first person in your family to attend a university, but you might also be the first out LGBTQ person in your family.”
“As a participant attending the ceremony, your support is vital to these students, especially if you have worked with and gotten to know them throughout their collegiate career,” he added. “This year’s ceremony feels much more profound than in past years, all of us coming together–LGBTQ and allies–to say we support this community and wholeheartedly support their future success.”
