The EqualiCon2k15 College Summit, designed to build political capacity, learn about GLBTQIA issues and have fun, will be hosted by East Central University’ Gay-Straight Alliance from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturday, March 28, at the Chickasaw Business and Conference Center.
The event, being sponsored by Freedom Oklahoma, is geared toward college students from across the state, but all are welcome to attend. Free t-shirts will be given to those who register by contacting tstevenson@theequalitynetwork.org or cpappas@ecok.edu. About 40 members of the GSA are planning the event and about 150 attendees are expected.
The theme “EqualiCon2k15” is taken from Comic-Con, in which participants are encouraged to wear their favorite costumes. Awards will be presented for the best costumes.
The event will also feature a networking lunch with GLBTQIA professionals from across the state in fields such as education, information technology, hospitality, law, and communications. The GSA will also recognize some of Oklahoma’s “superheroes” in the equality movement, including ECU graduate Louise Young and Richard Ogden, who is Oklahoma’s first openly gay regent and judge.
During six breakout sessions, participants will learn how to play politics with the experts, including hands-on lobbying and media training. Panels will feature explosive social topics in the state, including bullying, conversion therapy and trans-issues.
The GSA is also hosting a Drag Show and Dance Party starting at 8 p.m. in the Chalmers Herman Theater in the Hallie Brown Ford Fine Arts Center.
“We want to ensure people that we are active, teaching and learning,” said ECU student and active GSA member Shelby Greenhill.
GSA sponsor Dr. Christine Pappas has attended several college summits in the past. “EqualiCon2k15 has two goals: to provide a welcoming place for college students to come and learn, and to allow GLBTQIA students to network with successful professionals in their chosen fields,” Pappas said.
All events are free and open to the public. Participants are encouraged to preregister.
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