BU Athletics Celebrates Diversity and Inclusion with Pride Week
February 8, 2021 | General, Community Service
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The Boston University Department of Athletics hosted its annual Pride Week Celebration in support of the LBGTQIA+ community on Jan. 31– Feb. 6.
The week-long campaign was celebrated with various panels and events, hosted online via Zoom by Athlete Ally, the BU Athletics' student-led organization which fosters an inclusive environment for LGBTQIA+ student-athletes and allies.
On Monday, the week kicked off with the "Celebrate" portion of the program, when Athlete Ally and the BU Student-Athletes of Color committee held a conversation for student-athletes focused on intersectionality. The women's hockey student-athletes, coaching staff, and game personnel wore rainbow-colored face masks as a sign of support for the week's festivities.
On Tuesday, the day focused on "Education" with two events. The first event was a panel on the importance of education and allyship, led by Alana Anderson, BU's Diversity and Inclusion director of programs, and BU women's soccer Associate Head Coach Kelly Lawrence. The second panel featured a presentation from Schuyler Bailer, the first openly transgender NCAA Division I swimmer.
"The blend of voices that were heard from last week was so special," said Lawrence. "We created a space where LGBTQIA+ athletics members felt safe, supported and valued, and we created a space for allies to gain a better understanding and show their support. I couldn't be more proud of BU Athletics for its continued commitment to its LGBTQIA+ members."
On Thursday, the program focused on "Empowerment" with discussions concentrated on the LGBTQIA+ experience in athletics. The panel included athletics staff and student-athletes, including Diego de la Torre from men's track & field and cross country, and Sarah Wade from women's rowing.
"It was a great opportunity to share my experiences, connect with my athletic department, and provide education and awareness for what it means to be an LGBTQIA+ student-athlete," said Torre.
The celebration concluded on Friday with an emphasis on "Visibility" as BU women's ice hockey hosted Merrimack for the annual "Pride Game." The team, coaching staff, and game personnel wore rainbow-colored face masks as a sign of support for the week's festivities. Athlete Ally and other student-athletes tuned in to the game and shared their prideful attire on social media.
"Pride Week was a great success," said Athlete Ally president Veronica Kriss. "More staff and coaches participated this year than ever before, and I think that is a testament to our growing desire to become better allies."
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