EIU PRIDE is the only Lesbian Gay Bi-sexual and Transexual, or LGBT organization on campus. PRIDE was started in 1992 with the collective effort of a group of students who were looking for a place to meet other people with common ground, something that still holds true 18 years later.

Aiden Ethington, a second year political science graduate student and president of PRIDE, said being in PRIDE has made an impact in her life.

“We have people who come to us looking for people like them,” Ethington said. “There are a lot of people in our group who are outcasts, and it makes us feel good to give them a welcomed place.”

William Kendall, a senior art history major and publicity director of PRIDE, said being in the organization gives him a chance to help provide for people who are struggling.

Kendall said a good amount of people who attend their meetings and events need the support system that PRIDE provides.

Nick Canaday, a junior English with secondary education major and social director of PRIDE, said he has made a lot of lasting relationships within PRIDE.

“Before I came to PRIDE, I didn’t have many gay friends and I didn’t feel a part of the campus community,” Canaday said. “Some of the people I know are some of the best friends I have, and they’ll be my friends for a long time.”

Jordan Rozycki, a junior exercise science major, said PRIDE has helped him gain support within himself.

“Coming here, even though I’ve always been uncomfortable with being gay, I’ve always been that type of outgoing person,” Rozycki said. “Seeing those who are very outspoken inspired me to step it up.”

Rozycki said since being in PRIDE, he has felt more socially accepted within his own social group, but said he has found people who are stubborn toward him and others like him, but has recently found support from the outside world.

Rozycki said their unique identity, sense of togetherness and community makes them different from other RSOs.

PRIDE will be putting on LGBT History Week starting October 11 and running through October 16 as a part of LGBT History Month.

Jose Gonzalez can be reached at 581-7944 or [email protected]