SUNY Oswego celebrates inclusivity with Lavender Graduation
OSWEGO, N.Y.- As commencement is approaching fast at SUNY Oswego, one group on campus is making sure every student feels seen and celebrated.
Pride Alliance is hosting their annual Lavender Graduation on May 7th, honoring LGBTQ+ students and their allies before commencement. The event is open to all students, no matter if they identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community or simply want to show support.
Students who attend this event will have the opportunity to be recognized for their leadership, successes, and achievements. Participants will also receive a lavender cord to wear at commencement, symbolizing community and pride.
A tradition to more than just Oswego
Lavender Graduation is part of a larger history that is rooted in rebellion.
“Lavender Graduation has always been a thing everywhere,” said Pride Alliance Vice President Haleigh Lord, “It started because a woman was denied entrance to her own daughter’s graduation because of her identity and her sexuality.”
That woman was Dr. Ronni Sanlo, and she went on to hold the first Lavender Graduation in protest to the discrimination she felt, and to make sure others wouldn’t face the same.
Since then the tradition has expanded across the country. By the early 2000’s dozens of colleges were holding similar ceremonies, including SUNY Oswego. Today, the number of colleges that hold Lavender Graduations for students is well over 200.
“To be able to do that every year is an honor,” Lord said, “It’s a historical celebration… and being able to honor such a minority is wonderful.”
Continuing the legacy
Pride Alliance President, Alyx Relyea said that planning the event this year feels especially meaningful after joining the organization last year.
“Being a member of the LGBTQ community and having something that honors us and allies is very special,” Relyea said, “It’s really great to continue that tradition.”
The organizers say that they hope to continue growing the event and to keep the tradition alive for future students of SUNY Oswego.
If you would like to show support, Lavender Graduation will take place May 7th at 7:45 in Marano Campus Center Room 114. For more information you can connect with Pride Alliance through their Instagram or by emailing them at alliance@oswego.edu .