The Gender and Sexuality Alliance (GSA) at the University of Idaho has recently changed names, but the goals of diversity, inclusivity and visibility remain the same, according to members.
Danielle Garvin, who is entering her second year as the GSA’s co-chair, said she decided to join the organization almost immediately upon entering college and loved attending meetings and learning about the goals of the club. “The Gender and Sexuality Alliance is a student group on campus that strives to give LGBTQA UI students a community where they feel welcome,” Garvin said. “We try to have open and honest conversations about issues within the LGBTQA community as a whole as well as problems on campus or in Moscow that we can work towards resolving or lessening the damage of.”
Garvin said the group welcomes all who are interested in the LGBTQA community and aims to expand upon the size of GSA.
“GSA is intended to help others feel included and tries to be a welcoming community,” Garvin said. “We don’t pressure anyone to identify and we try to encourage growth and learning through open, two-sided discussions.”
Ezra Saville, a first-year UI student and new GSA member, said he decided to join GSA almost immediately upon entering college because of the group’s unique focus on supporting LGBTQA students.
“I am a transgender, bisexual student who wanted to have a support system on campus, while also participating in any activism opportunities that can be made available by going there,” Saville said. “I also have made some friends this way.”
Alexandra Stutzman | Argonaut
University of Idaho first-year student Alex Paul studies in the Student Diversity Center Wednesday morning in TLC 229.
Saville said he is grateful there is a group on campus that takes the time to focus specifically on LGBTQA students and issues.
“I think students and faculty should know that the GSA is an important part of this campus. LGBTQIA-plus students are here and (are) valuable to this community just like everyone else, and some may need the support,” Saville said.
The three GSA co-chairs plan and host a wide variety of events for members, which include “discourse nights” consisting of protests or fun activities to de-stress — such as game nights, potlucks and crafting activities.
Garvin said GSA works closely with the UI LGBTQA Office when planning educational events and programs on campus.
Julia Keleher, director of the LGBTQA Office, will lead an educational discussion with the GSA Sept. 26, called “Queer Convo.” The event will continue monthly.
Garvin said the GSA holds weekly meetings Wednesdays at 8:15 p.m. in the Idaho Commons Student Diversity Center.
“We really value the ideas and thoughts of everyone who comes. Most of our meetings are around educating and opinion-based discussions, and we are committed to making sure every voice is heard,” Garvin said. “We want everyone to feel they have a space in the GSA.”
Elizabeth Marshall can be reached at [email protected]