On Oct. 31, Allies held their semi-annual drag show, this year entitled “Eye Candy.” Costumes were in full effect, from the traditional witch and black cat to the inventive “black and white movie” and cyclops. The show began at 7:30 p.m., and a total of seven performers. Attendees of the drag show were encouraged to tip the performers to help Allies philanthropic efforts. Throughout the show, Allies also had a silent auction for eight LGBT art pieces by Ben Griffith and sold Allies t-shirts that the group designed. If you would like to purchase an Allies t-shirt, they are $15. Please contact Allies President Kalen Sharpe for more information.
A portion of the proceeds from the event will go to support The Trevor Project, the number one non-profit focused on suicide prevention in the teenage population of the LGBTQ+ community. The Trevor Project was founded in 1998 by the creators of the Academy Award-winning short film TREVOR.Ā The other profits made will go back into the Allies organization.
According to their student organization web page, āAllies is a gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and straight organization that believes in the elimination of discrimination in all its forms.āĀ President Kalen Sharpe states, “Allies hopes to provide a clear support system for members of the group as they’ve done since they were founded in 1996.” They also host a variety of activities throughout the year in hopes of creating a stronger unity among the general public by improving understanding.
For those interested in joining Allies, active membership in the group requires a $10 fee, but anyone who has a genuine interest may attend meeting on Wednesday nights in Room 231 in the University Center at 6 p.m. There is a rigid confidentiality agreement for all of these meetings to ensure the safety of all students. Another policy under the Allies belief statement is no assumption of sexual orientation or cultural background, making it inclusive for all.
