LGBT conference to draw alumni

LGBU brings variety of speakers

In honor of the twenty-fifth anniversary of Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual activism on the Oberlin College campus, Lesbian Gay Bisexual Union (LGBU) is hosting a conference this weekend. Many alumnae who participated in LBGU activism while students will be visiting, in addition to thirty or more students from colleges in the Midwest.

Sophomore Viet Le, co-chair of LGBU, said that this conference is a great opportunity to celebrate community activism in Oberlin and learn about the past of LGBU. Le said that LGBU members expect a good turnout not only because of the strong involvement of the Oberlin College and community, but also because Oberlin College has one of the largest LGB alumnae organizations in the country.

The conference activities will begin today. Urvashi Vaid, author of Virtual Equality, will speak at 8 pm at Warner Concert Hall. At 10 pm, Third World Co-op is hosting a coffeehouse which will feature student and alumnae performances. La Alianza Latina will be showing a film and Moss Stern, `84, will play songs from his recent album, Sodomy .

On Saturday, there will be workshops throughout the day which will discuss issues such as anti-racism in the Gay community, Bisexual issues, and personal experiences. These will be led by both alumnae and current students, and are open to everyone. There will also be a Queer Night at the `Sco.

On Sunday morning, a Memorial Service will be held in memory of friends and loved ones lost because of breast cancer and AIDS. This is especially for alumnae who have lost friends and companions since their involvement in the Oberlin LGBU. On Sunday afternoon there will be a Queer Studies Panel which will discuss, among other things, the integration of a Queer Studies department in the curriculum of Oberlin College.

Andrew LaVallee, chair of the LGBU Conference and double-degree junior, said, "These conferences are so important because they bring together diverse communities of identity, activism, and academics. For those of us that have personal stake in such matters this opportunity for coalition and reunion is an amazing opportunity."