University of Minnesota Athletics
Gophers Celebrate National Coming Out Day
10/11/2021 2:30:00 PM | SAAC, Student-Athlete Development, Diversity & Inclusion
Golden Gopher Athletics proudly lives our shared commitment to a respectful and inclusive environment for all identities and communities. On this National Coming Out Day, we asked Gophers what this day means to them and why it is important to them to celebrate.
Meade Avery:
"It takes a lot of courage, time, and effort to feel comfortable being yourself. This National Coming Out Day, I'm thankful for the community that I have found within Gopher Athletics. Being open about being out is the first step in supporting others through their process, so I'd like to recognize that this day is also for those who are not out. You're loved and supported no matter where you are on your journey. We're in this together."
Mel Bartlett:
The Gophers are proud to be part of multiple student led groups that work on improving the experiences of LGBTQA+ students and student-athletes.
Gopher Advocates and Allies is an LGBTQ+ group here at the University of Minnesota for Queer Student-Athletes and Allies to build community, learn, and lead. We meet on the third Tuesday of every month in the Athlete Village. Contact Meade Avery (avery172@umn.edu) or Anna Hansen (hans7163@umn.edu) for more information.
The Queer Student-Athlete Coalition is a conference-wide LGBTQ+ group that works on building community, advocating, and educating in athletics. We meet every Monday from 6:30-7:30 central. Fill out this Google Form or email b10qsac@gmail.com for more information.
To learn more about National Coming Out Day, as well as about resources please visit:
https://gsc.umn.edu/resources/