On Friday, Sept. 17, the Queer Leftist Book Club is hosting an event on campus called “Y’all Means All Mic Night” on the first-floor lounge of the Student Union from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

This event is meant to give people the opportunity not only to hang out and have fun, but also to express themselves without worry or judgment.

Anyone is allowed to participate, sing or perform anything they want, including slam poetry, songs or simply share their experiences through conversation. The QLBC will serve free pizza to attendees.

According to QLBC member Max Hamblin, this event presents an opportunity for students of the LGBTQ+ community to share their experiences with growing up in the south.

“As members of the LGBTQ+ community that live in such a conservative region of the United States, we have unique experiences when it comes to figuring out our identity and self-acceptance,” they explained, “this will give students a place to share those stories and inspire others.”

Hamblin added that after each speaker, everyone will break into groups before discussing what the speaker talked about. This will give participants a chance to digest specific points of what was said and to meet more people as well.

“I hope that this event will help students see Southeastern as a safe place for them,” said Hamblin.

Hamblin hopes this event will begin a series of more open mic nights for people to discuss other topics such as racism and gender identity in the community.

“It’s important to have those hard conversations, and this event serves as our ice breaker,” they said.