October is LGBTQ+ History Month, and Penn State’s Center for Sexual and Gender Diversity (CSGD) has several events planned to celebrate. 

The “Penn State Queerstory” exhibit will be on display in the CSGD, located on the lower level of the HUB, until the end of October. This exhibit features documents and photos that trace the history of the Center since its creation in 2001.

The keynote speaker is Alok Vaid-Menon, an internationally known public speaker, author, and performer. Vaid-Menon is noted for their mixed media artwork and the creation of the #DeGenderFashion movement. The keynote address will stream virtually via a WPSU stream or in the Freeman Auditorium at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, October 13.

Later in the month, Penn State will welcome back filmmaker and drag queen Peaches Christ (Josh Grannell), who graduated from the university in 1996. Grannell will discuss their experiences at Penn State and provide a screening of their 2010 horror thriller film, “All About Evil.” This event will take place at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, October 27 in Room 008 of the HUB.

Other events throughout the month include a trivia night on Wednesday, October 20, and a discussion on sex-positivity. A full list of programming can be found here.

The Center for Sexual and Gender Diversity will also mark its 20th year of operation in 2021. The center has resources for LGBTQ+ students, including health and wellness education, mentor programs, scholarships, and programming throughout the year. Visit the CSGD website to learn about the wide variety of initiatives it offers.