McGill’s 2SLGBTQIA+ graduates took centre stage at McGill’s annual Lavender Grad Celebration.
The May 21 event honoured over 40 McGillians who’ve recently completed their undergraduate, graduate or doctoral studies, and was attended by family, friends and members of McGill’s 2SLGBTQIA+ community.
“We’re here to celebrate,” said Shannon Wood, Equity Education Advisor (Gender Equity and 2S/LGBTQIA+ Education), who served as the master of ceremonies.
“To celebrate the immeasurable accomplishments and contributions you’ve made throughout your studies, and the courage and dedication you’ve shown to achieve your academic goals.”
Academics weren’t the only highlights from graduates’ time at McGill; those in attendance cited activism in student groups – such as volunteering for the Union for Gender Empowerment – as well as participating in off-campus activities, including queer line dancing, Montréal Victoire matches, volunteering at festivals and interning with local community programs.
These extracurricular experiences “helped me to be completely myself,” said Pengfei Cao, who just completed a master’s degree in Education and Society.
Building queer community
The event’s keynote speaker was Prof. Alex Ketchum, Associate Professor at the Institute for Gender, Sexuality and Feminist Studies and Chair of the Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Committee Subcommittee on Queer People.
“In a world that pushes us to move fast and go, go, go, I want us to take a moment to pause and acknowledge this moment,” said Ketchum. “You’ve done it; you’re graduating. This is amazing, and we’re so proud of you.
“As you leave this university or move into a different course of study here, I hope you can take the lessons you have learned at McGill to bolster your spirit. Know the work you have done here has improved the university for future 2SLBGTQIA+ students.”
Gaël Bergen, who spoke on behalf of the McGill Queer Alumni Association, invited all graduates to come back to campus for Return of the Rainbow, McGill’s annual queer homecoming event.
“Building a queer community is so important,” said Bergen, encouraging graduates to stay connected with the University.
“Congratulations to everyone on graduating,” she said. “It is no easy feat, and we’re proud of you.”
