Springfield may not have seen much rain this October, but rainbows still shone brightly at the University of Illinois Springfield. While the month is known for Halloween and midsemester stress, it is also LGBTQ History Month, celebrated nationally since 1994. At UIS, the Gender and Sexuality Student Services office made sure every week of October offered students a chance to learn, connect, celebrate, and reflect.

The monthlong celebration, affectionately known on campus as Queer-tober, featured daily or near daily programming. At the center of it all was National Coming Out Day, which the GSSS describes as an indelible part of UIS campus culture. This event has been held annually for years and remains one of the most visible and meaningful moments of support for the LGBTQ community on campus.

Throughout October, the GSSS offered everything from interactive programs and social gatherings to affirming spaces and historical education. The month began with a kickoff and affirmation station and closed with a special Feminist Friday themed ‘Feminist Icons From The Grave’ on October 31. The variety of events reflected the many identities, stories, and needs within the LGBTQ community.

One of the most anticipated events of Queer-tober was the Alternative Prom, or Alt Prom, held October 17. This come as you are dance gave marginalized students a rare opportunity to enjoy a prom experience where they felt fully welcome. The turnout was modest, but the sense of comfort and belonging was strong.

“It is a great way to get together with friends,” said Elton Boose, a graduate assistant for the GSSS. “Have fun and let loose amid the stress of school.”

For many, the atmosphere mattered even more than the attendance. “I wanted to try new things on campus,” said first year student Paris Gholson. “I like that it is very diverse, there is kind of something for everybody.”

The GSSS also created smaller, more laid-back spaces throughout the month, including a series of events called LGBTea Social. On October 23, students gathered for a trivia night in the Diversity Center followed by board games and conversation. Participants represented a wide range of student backgrounds, majors, identities, and experiences, united in a welcoming and affirming environment.

LGBTQ History Month has deep roots beyond UIS. It was created to honor both the 1979 March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights and National Coming Out Day, first celebrated in 1988. The University of Illinois system even played a historical role. The very first planning meeting for the 1979 march took place at the University of Illinois Urbana Champaign student union, a reminder that activism and visibility in this state stretch back generations.

One of the driving forces behind Queer-tober at UIS is GSSS Program Coordinator Dre Duvendack. Known for her energy, dedication, and unwavering commitment to LGBTQ students, Duvendack helped craft the theme for this year’s celebration: Queer Joy is Resistance.

“With all the things in the world trying to bring us down and trying to get us to focus on all of the bad and all of the horrible things happening,” she said, “we have to find those pockets of joy and happiness because that is how we keep moving forward.”

This joyful, student-centered approach stands in contrast to recent national trends. Several major universities, including Columbia and Harvard, have faced pressure to scale back DEI support, including resources for LGBTQ students. At a time when inclusion is being challenged, the visibility and support offered by UIS and GSSS sends a different message, one rooted in care, community, and pride.

Students looking to learn more, get involved, or connect with the GSSS can visit the Student Life Building or email [email protected].