We are happy to celebrate Pride Month at UA Little Rock. Our tradition of Heritage Month statements typically begins with a historical overview, and this month is no different. The acronym LGBTQIA+ encompasses lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning, intersex, and asexual identities, with the plus sign acknowledging the diversity of additional identities, including Two-Spirit, which honors Indigenous cultures recognizing individuals with both male and female characteristics.
Last year’s Pride Statement delved into the history of Pride Month, tracing its roots to the Stonewall Riots of 1969. This year, we spotlight the contributions and support for the LGBTQIA+ community within our university, emphasizing how their visibility has grown and enriched UA Little Rock. Notably, the Stonewall Scholarship Endowment awards $1,000 to $4,000 annually to a student who demonstrates knowledge of LGBTQIA+ history, understanding of current events, and leadership in advancing LGBTQIA+ civil rights. Since its inception in 2005, 19 students have received this scholarship, funded primarily by two alumni from the DC area and their networks, showcasing broad support for our students. Interested students can apply through Scholarship Universe from November to March.
Support Opportunities
Building on the foundation of the Stonewall Scholarship, the Safe Zone program was launched in Fall 2013 by faculty, staff, and students in collaboration with UAMS colleagues. The program aims to improve campus climate by training faculty and staff on LGBTQIA+ issues. This fall marks the 10th anniversary of the first on-campus Safe Zone training, with over 30 sessions conducted and approximately 135 trained members. Safe Zone participants pledge to foster an inclusive environment, engage in genuine dialogue, and assist individuals in accessing resources, all while maintaining confidentiality and using inclusive language. To identify Safe Zone, look for the sticker:
The Rainbow Alliance, reconstituted from the Alliance post-pandemic, continues its mission to provide a safe space for students to discuss issues related to sexual orientation and gender identity, and to combat homophobia, biphobia, and transphobia. In collaboration with faculty and staff, the Rainbow Alliance established the Rainbow Center, which opened in Fall 2022, further enhancing support and visibility for the LGBTQIA+ community.
Learn About Available Resources
These initiatives significantly enrich our campus and foster a sense of belonging for all members of our community. We have been especially enriched by these improvements in our community. Our friendship began through our work on the Stonewall Scholarship as the Gender Studies Coordinator (Estes) and the Director of Development (Boyce). Our friendship reflects the collaborative spirit and mutual support that define our LGBTQIA+ initiatives. As we celebrate Pride Month, we remain mindful of the ongoing challenges faced by the LGBTQIA+ community and commit to ensuring that these efforts continue to enhance our collective experience as Trojans.
Building Solidarity – Celebrating Pride Month
No Description
We would like to thank Sharon Downs and Joyce Carter for sharing information that contributed to this statement.
Dr, Sarah Beth Estes, Dean of the College of Humanities, Arts, Social Sciences, and Education
Derek Boyce, Director of Development, University Initiatives/Corporate and Foundation Relations
More about Pride Month
In June of 1970, on the one year anniversary of the Stonewall Uprising, the first Pride marches were held in New York, Los Angeles and Chicago. This started a tradition of celebrating pride month that continues more than 40 years later. – Library of Congress