The Highline Thunderbirds were glowing, literally, as they dressed to impress and lit up the dance floor during the climax of LGBTQIA+ Week: the “Bring Your Own Light” black light dance.

Last week, Highline celebrated the 13th annual LGBTQIA+ week with the ‘’More Than Just Rainbows: still here, still queer” events. Members and allies came together to celebrate their identities and expression with a week full of unique events. New activities occurred everyday from arts and films to games and sports. Yet, the week ended radiantly!

The highlighted event, “Bring Out Your Light” black light dance party, was an epic gathering of students, faculty, and staff who came together for a night of self-expression, community, connection, and celebration. 

Building 8 was transformed into a haven of color and energy. The room beamed with pride and personality. There was food and drink available for guests to keep them energized for the dance floor. There were tables for conversing (and much needed dance breaks). 

Music was provided by local artist, DJ Femmeboitoy who played tunes for all ages and eras: from old classic dance jams to recent popular hits from Doja Cat and Beyoncè. Second year student Alex loved the classic, groovy disco jams played by DJ Femmeboitoy. But the fan favorite of the night was the Cupid Shuffle, which left no one seated. 

Administrator Jamilyn Pen, the Vice President of Student Services, said her favorite part of the dance was being able to show up and be present in the final project. She noted that she worked on last year’s LGBTQIA+ dance, the “Pink Prom,” yet was not able to attend. 

“Seeing it all come together” is what brings her the most joy after completing the event planning according to Pen, who works behind the scenes with the planning of events and approving budgets and materials. Our administration works hard to plan events for campus that are inviting and enjoyable for everyone. 

Someone who can attest to that is faculty member Amy Rider, with High School Engagement & Academic Success. Rider feels ‘’students need space to be free to connect’’ and finds it is “healthy [for them] to be in social spaces.’’ 

This event gave students and allies the opportunity to reconnect with themselves and the people around them. It was a reminder that there is a community available and space to be unapologetically you. That hope was spread and the ability to meet new people was prevalent. 

This was definitely true for Bella and Ann. Together they said that they “bonded instantly” after meeting that night. Ann, a returning student, highlighted that the glow-in-the-dark volleyball match was her favorite moment of the night.

 “[This is] the most hype event [I’ve ever been to],” Ann said. Additionally, Bella, a first year student, enjoyed dancing the Cupid Shuffle on the full dance floor. This was her first college dance or event she’s attended. Bella also said that she is eager to attend more events, especially pride ones.  

They both shared that pride was important to them in order to make new LGBTQIA+ friends. They opened up about coming from unaccepting homes and being misunderstood by family members. It is important to find community with others who they can relate to and understand their identities. 

Ann wants people to know that they are not alone and was proud to be able to take part in this event on campus. They answered “Definitely!” when asked if they will be attending future events. 

Before the dance, they did not know about the Q Center and other resources offered on campus but were happy to learn that they had many options available. One of these options includes the Center for Cultural and Inclusive Excellence (CCIE).

The head-runner Edwina Fui, director of the CCIE, was ecstatic to see the connections made and the excitement of the attendees. This event was an opportunity to ‘’celebrate identity’’ and a ‘’fun way to make relationships,’’ said Fui. The CCIE wanted to be intentional about making a space for social wellness. 

The idea behind this event is that every person matters and it’s safe to be proud of who you are. Fui wants the ‘’student experience to be accessible.’’ She encourages students that want to get involved or attend future events to read their emails, follow CCIE on social media, or come to the third floor of Building 8 for a newsletter. 

Fui also previewed Disability Justice Week, the next set of events that will take place Nov. 6-9.

All in all, ‘’Bring Out Your Light’’ dance was a huge hit. The dance floor was full of witnesses in the most fabulous attire ablaze with dance moves. It was a welcoming environment with a great community. 

This celebration of identity is a great reminder that being ourselves is enough of a reason to celebrate.