The Queer Advocacy Network’s main focus is raising awareness and providing support for the LGBT.
QAN advocates on behalf of the LGBT community, said Melanie Vigil, co-president of the club.
“The primary focus of QAN is working by using politics, education, social events and of course advocacy to [serve the]LGBT community at UW and beyond,” said Kasey Massie, club treasurer.
Vigil recently spoke on the Intro to LGBT Legislative Advocacy panel last week. Others on the panel included Jeran Artery from Cheyenne-based Wyoming Equality, Rep. Cathy Connolly and Rep. Dan Zwonitzer, Vigil said. The panel discussed upcoming events in the legislature involving the LGBT community.
“Both anti-LGBT and pro-LGBT bills are being discussed by our politicians. QAN will be going to Cheyenne and voicing our opinions,” Vigil said.
Spreading awareness is a huge part of the club, Vigil and Massie said. The club focuses on activism and advocacy.
Queer Advocacy Network meets from 5-6 p.m. every Tuesday in room 203 of the Union. Meetings consist of planning events and talking about past events. The focus is always fun, Vigil said.
This year QAN’s main goal and focus is to educate people on the legislation associated with the LGBT community, Vigil said. Anyone is welcomed to join QAN, according to Massie. You do not have to attend meetings to be a part of the club. Both Vigil and Massie said QAN is a great organization if you are passionate about human rights.
“If you want to do activism work, QAN is a great way to get your foot in the door and build networking, and it gets you involved in something,” Vigil said.
QAN has hosted several past events, including Pink Prom. Pink Prom is an all-inclusive dance. It is open for all people and backgrounds, Vigil said.
Supporters of QAN and the LGBT community include the Rainbow Resource center, which is a “safe place for LGBT individuals and allies,” and Spectrum, according to Massie and Vigil. Both Vigil and Massie said allies who support the LGBT community are a huge component.
Having someone to look up to is a big component in acceptance and support. Massie said Ellen DeGeneres is an excellent role model because she “is a normal person, and she shows that people are people.” Vigil loves Lady Gaga and all the work she has done for the LGBT community.
