At Chandler-Gilbert Community College (CGCC) we may be one pack, but we are made up of a diverse group of coyotes—and that is something to celebrate! One important way for students to express themselves is to get involved in campus organizations that support their interests.
Since June marks Pride Month, CGCC is highlighting its One Voice Club. Marie Huntsinger, Residential Sociology Faculty and One Voice Club Advisor, answered questions about the group including how it educates and advocates for CGCC students.
What is the One Voice Club?
Huntsinger: The One Voice Club is a student organization that is devoted to education, advocacy, and a safe place for social interaction for students who identify with the LGBTQ+ community and their allies.
What is its mission?
Huntsinger: To provide a safe environment for people/students who are Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Questioning, and Allies (LGBTQA), and to give opportunities for social interaction, education, LGBTQ issues, and promoting participation to raise awareness in our school and community. With these intentions, we enact the creation of the One Voice Club.
How does the Club educate students?
Huntsinger: One Voice hosts a variety of events on campus throughout the academic year including an LGBTQ+ student panel during Coming Out week, condom bars and HIV/AIDS education, movie screenings, volunteering, and informational booths on campus.
Why is it important for students to have representation on their campus?
Huntsinger: It is important for marginalized communities to see themselves represented on campus in positive ways. Representation creates a sense of belonging and can help raise self-esteem for students who may have experienced stigma, bullying, and rejection due to their sexual orientation and/or gender identity. Representation also helps increase support and tolerance from our campus community that is not part of the LGBTQ+ community. Our education efforts aim to reduce the stigma associated with the community and normalize LGBTQ+ folks as beneficial contributors to our campus environment. In addition, the club provides a safe place for students to meet, plan events, and engage in activism efforts.
How can interested students join/get involved?
Huntsinger: Students can contact us through Coyote Connect, our Discord, or by contacting club co-advisors, either me (marie.huntsinger@cgc.edu) or George Mulloy (George.Mulloy@cgc.edu).
Thank you Professor Huntsinger! For more local Pride resources, visit Phoenix Pride at https://phoenixpride.org/.
Aurora and Prof. Huntsinger in collaboration with the Southwest Center for HIV/AIDS run the condom bar on campus.