The Open Door Network and U.M.B.R.E.L.L.A. Meet and Greet Social
All Vanier students and staff of the LGBTQ+ community were welcomed to a meet and greet social event on April 12th. Allies were also welcomed at the event. Seating was arranged in a circle and attendees had the opportunity to sit and converse with others in the LGBTQ+ community. There was also a snack table that featured samosas, fruits, and vegetables as well as some sweets.
The conversation between attendees was very light-hearted and friendly. After some great conversation, the special guest of the event Lucas Charlie Rose arrived. Attendees introduced themselves and their preferred pronouns and then Lucas introduced himself and what he does.
Lucas is a transgender rap artist based in Montreal. He started his own record label called Trans Trenderz for transgender rap artists after seeing the lack of trans representation and transphobia in mainstream rap music. The record label is also non-profit, so trans musicians can have their songs released through the label even if they don’t have the funds. Shows by Trans Genderz welcome all, and will not turn anyone away for not having enough money to pay.
Lucas was very open to any questions, and it was really interesting to learn about his life, his struggles, and how he made a name for himself and other transgender people. If you are interested in hearing what Trans Trenderz has to offer, they have a Bandcamp account where you can listen to their music.
If you would like more information about U.M.B.R.E.L.L.A. club or The Open Door Network, visit http://www.vaniercollege.qc.ca/open-door-network/, or email odn@vanier.college. Keep an eye out for future events like these ones!
