OutWeek kicks off!

The LGBQTTI (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning, transsexual, two-spirit and intersex) community was out in force Monday at UBC Okanagan.

The opening of OutWeek at the university kicked off with the rainbow flag raising ceremony.

UBCO Student Union Executive Director Bobby Chavarie says the week long even could not have been possible without the help of the community.

"Its a great thing to see so much support from the LGTBQ community as well as allies, advocates and friends that can come out here in solidarity.  Its just embracing the diversity of our campus, and it's a really great event."

For his part, UBCO Vice Chancellor Doug Owram says the university needs to be an accepting place for everyone.

"This is a very firm value we hold, and the fact that we're in a particular political climate where some people oppose - so be it," says Owram.

Other events this week include:

-Showing of documentary "Fagbug" Tuesday at 4pm.

-Reading and Talk with playwright Michael MacLennan Wednesday

-Theatre performance of My Funny Valentine Thursday

-HoMotown at the Habitat Friday

For a complete schedule of OutWeek events, visit www.ubc.ca/okanagan/students/campuslife.html

David Woodard - Kelowna