Pride Perspectives: New LGBTQIA Resource Center Director Tegra Myanna Shares Insights, Advice, and How to Get Connected

Q: How would you describe the LGBTQIA community at Georgia Tech? 

Not having as much familiarity with Tech as Camilla Brewer, our center's program coordinator, I asked her to offer reflections on this question. In her words, "The LGBTQIA community at Tech is talented, strong, brilliant, resilient, and driven. Essentially, the LGBTQIA community is similar to the larger Tech Community. There are queer and trans students in sports, gaming clubs, the band, all majors, and working in different labs and departments. For some, an LGBTQIA identity becomes a salient part of their Tech experience, while for others it might not play a significant role. We hope to provide space for all LGBTQIA students, and their allies, through our work in the LGBTQIA Resource Center."

Q: What advice would you give to prospective or current students looking to get involved with the LGBTQIA community? 

My advice would really depend on what a student is looking for. If you wanted to be more aware of things happening on campus, I'd suggest that they sign-up for the LGBTQIA Resource Center Newsletter, follow us on social media (Instagram or Facebook) or get connected with Pride Alliance (undergraduate students) or Grad Pride (graduate students). There are also a ton of things happening in the larger metro area that students might want to connect with. Staff in our Center can also help you get connected to off-campus resources and spaces for community and support. If you are looking for a more active role in building or advocating for LGBTQIA community, you should also connect with Center staff.  

Q: Why do you believe it is important to celebrate Pride Month?

I think it's important to celebrate Pride because it honors our ancestors and the trans trailblazers who made a lot of the protections and progress that we have today possible. I think Pride Month is also important in providing community to those who might not always have access to it. For LGBTQIA folks who live in more rural areas, in unsupportive families or communities, and whose intersections of identity make finding community hard, Pride and Pride celebrations create opportunity for connection that aren't always readily available.  

Q: What can people within the College of Sciences, and Georgia Tech as a whole, do to support LGBTQIA students? 

I think first and foremost is to recognize that LGBTQIA folks aren't a separate entity from the community of folks who work in and with the College of Sciences. Another important step is increasing your knowledge and understanding of LGBTQIA issues. Signing up for a Safe Space or Trans 101 training are great ways to begin this process. If you are looking to create a more equitable community for LGBTQIA people, I'd suggest critically reflecting on your own language, behavior or practices and identifying any unintentional avenues for exclusion that occur. LGBTQIA Resource Center staff are available for consultation on how individuals or departments can work towards more equity practices for trans and queer students.  

Q: Is there anything else you would like to mention? 

Just that no question or request for help is too small. If at any time you think about asking for our support or guidance (even if it's just to review information for your website, a flyer, etc.). I hope that you will reach out.
 

To learn more and get involved with Georgia Tech's LGBTQIA Resource Center and related campus organizations, visit their website and check out virtual resources.

Get involved with the College of Sciences Graduate Diversity Council and Faculty Diversity Council, and learn about the creation of our new Staff Advisory Council and Task Force on Racial Equity.