Glendale Community College students gather around tables set up with easels and pride flags propped up against blank canvases, ready to “Paint with Pride.”
On September 30th, the Pride Center hosted Paint with Pride at the J.W. Student building. The organization welcomed students and allies of the LGBTQ community to express themselves through their art. The center fostered a safe space for LGBTQ students to build community and express their identities.
During Paint with Pride, students took the freedom to fill their canvas with designs that reflected their identities. The event encouraged collaboration and meeting new people allowing students to connect with others as a part of the community.
As students walked into the room and gathered around tables ready to paint, the atmosphere began to fill with creativity. Student worker Mitzel Martinez, who has been with the Pride Center for three years, welcomed students to the event and guided them as they prepared their canvases.
Speaking upon the center’s purpose, Martinez shared that the Pride Center and Multicultural Office had noticed the lack of diversity and are trying to bring the community back together.
She explained that they are currently working on events such as a series of events like Grow with Pride, Paint with Pride, and Wellness Pride to gather the LGBTQ community together.
Through her guidance, Martinez helps bring the Pride Center’s mission to life, fostering community and visibility. Reflecting on the current political climate, she emphasized that at GCC “Pride is about community and family,” Martinez said. “Our goal is to share exposure for our students to feel heard and be seen.”
While student workers like Martinez assist in creating welcoming events, senior staff guide the Pride Center’s missions and direction. They ensure LGBTQ students are supported and empowered across campus.
Nane Kakosian, Program and Service Senior Specialist, has been with GCC for over 25 years. She has taken a lead in redeveloping the Pride Center after recent leadership changes, helping guide its mission of inclusion. Kakosian said their vision has been to advocate for our students that identify within the community and their ally, to bring awareness.
By providing a safe space, resources, and opportunities for students to obtain education assistance, Kakosian states that the Pride Center objectives are to really listen and provide the services that students need, and not what we think they need.
As the Pride Center expands their community and services, Kakosian reminds her peers and students that no matter who you are, you need to be proud. Pride is not letting the stigma of others dictate who you are or who you should be.
Beyond events, Kakosian and the Pride Center are collaborating with the Multicultural Office to host workshops, counseling, and educational opportunities that promote inclusivity and understanding across campus.
The Pride Center, located in the Multicultural Office in Building Sierra Madre 267, provides a safe and inclusive space for LGBTQ students and allies. Students can get involved by signing up for events, joining support groups, or participating in workshops, helping to ensure that every voice on campus is heard and valued.