The LGBTQ+ community is getting its own safe haven on campus.
A pride center has been on Citrus College’s bucket list for years now. With the chancellor’s office approval and new state funding, the dream is finally becoming a reality.
The new Pride Center will be within the Campus Center in room 127. Currently the room is vacant with no more than a few tables and fake plants. Furniture has been ordered and the new Pride Center coordinator position is expected to be filled within this fall semester. Expect access to the center as soon as next semester.
According to the 2022 National survey on LGBTQ+ youth mental health conducted by The Trevor Project, 60% of LGBTQ+ youth who wanted mental health care insurance in the past year were not able to get it.
The Pride Center gives students access to any of the other help centers, including the
Student Health Center that provides students with medical advice, mental health support, or referrals.The Trevor Projects survey reveals as of last year 45% of LGBTQ+ youth seriously considered suicide and 14% died by suiside.
Citrus is supporting students by giving by giving a safe and welcoming environment to within the community. A key finding in last year’s national survey is that LGBTQ+ youth that found their school to LGBTQ+-affirming reported lower rates of attempting suicide.
Any students in need are welcome to come in and see the coordinator. Whether they just want someone to talk to, or are in a more dire situation, the coordinator will be knowledgeable of all things relating to this community and can connect them to options specific to their needs.
Tolano-Leveque said students with a multitude of problems can be connected to any of the other Citrus campus centers depending on their issue, including healthcare, basic needs, food assistance and transportation.
She also said the center is expected to hold group talks relating to LGBTQ+ struggles.
After its launch, students can reach the center at pride@citruscollege.edu or pop in personally to see the coordinator.
Tolano-Leveque said the Pride Center’s coordinator will become the heart of the center.
Tolano-Leveque said in addition to providing services to the struggling students, this person will train and teach the staff in an ally training program about all things relating to the topic, informing the teachers and staff on how to actively help and understand where students who are a part of this minority are coming from.
Staff who have completed this training will receive a Citrus pride pin as well as a sticker that they can wear or stick to their door to let students know of their support.
