Newsletter

Pride Dinner

By Ava Garcia

May 12, 2026

GSU’s Pride Month programming continued on April 22 with Hamilton’s first Pride Dinner, held in The Annex and co-hosted by the Gender & Sexuality Union (GSU) and the Days-Massolo Multicultural Center (DMC). Designed as a space for students, faculty, staff, and their families, the event brought the campus community together for an evening of celebration, reflection, and connection in honor of LGBTQIA+ Pride.

The evening began with speeches from members of the GSU executive board, who reflected on the organization’s evolution over the years. Drawing on both personal experiences and the contributions of past members, speakers highlighted how GSU has expanded its presence on campus while continuing to advocate for inclusion and support. These reflections grounded the event in a sense of continuity, honoring the work that has made current programming possible.

Following the speeches, attendees enjoyed a fully catered meal provided by Parkhurst Dining, featuring a colorful assortment of dishes and rainbow-themed desserts, including cupcakes that echoed the celebratory tone of the evening. The vibrant presentation of the meal reinforced the event’s emphasis on joy, visibility, and community.

The program also included a round of Pride-themed trivia, which added an interactive and educational dimension to the evening. One question asked participants to identify the 2015 Supreme Court case that legalized same-sex marriage nationwide, a landmark decision that reflected decades of activism, including the work of lesbian attorney Mary Bonauto. The winning participant received a gift card to Euphoria, tying the activity back into contemporary queer culture.

More than just a dinner, the event created a space where celebration and reflection could coexist. By bringing together members of the Hamilton community across roles and identities, the Pride Dinner highlighted the importance of visibility, shared history, and collective joy. As both a first-time event and part of a broader month of programming, it underscored GSU and DMC’s ongoing efforts to foster an inclusive campus environment where LGBTQIA+ identities are not only recognized, but celebrated.