Entering its 26th year on campus, The Bisexual, Gay, Lesbian and Straight Alliance is a prominent organizations on USC's campus.
BGLSA's goals, according to its Web site are to "raise awareness about GLBTQ people, the issues they face, and to provide a supportive network for anyone dealing with sexual orientation or gender identity difficulties."
Laura Schneider, president of BGLSA and a third-year psychology student, said BGLSA is a very open-minded group.
"We are an organization aimed to create a place for GLBT and Straight Allies…to come and feel accepted," said Schneider, who is straight. "We provide a fun environment."
Schneider said the organization tries to raise awareness on campus, but still have fun at the same time. "We have a lot of fun while still educating others," Schneider said.
An important BGLSA event this year will be participating in S.C. Pride Week.
BGLSA also hosts the Miss Gaymecock pageant, a competition for students that raises money for the organization. The winner of the pageant is given the opportunity to ride in BGLSA's float for S.C. Pride Week.
The Birdcage one of BGLSA's key events takes place in spring and features performances from drag queens.
It is BGLSA's biggest event of the year. "Last year almost 600 students attended The Birdcage," Schneider said.
According to Schneider, the organization has 60-70 members this semester.
"Though we're always hoping to make our organization grow larger," Schneider said.
BGLSA meetings take place at 8 p.m. on Mondays in Gambrell 250.
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