Equal is a registered student organization at the main campus of the University of Central Florida in Orlando, FL. Our mission is to provide a safe environment for students to interact and network with each other, engage in social activities, and develop personal character without fear of discrimination on the basis of actual or perceived sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression, and to provide support and resources for students who have experienced such discrimination.
Our History
Equal was founded on February 19, 1976 as the Gay Student Association at what was then called the Florida Technological University. The name was later changed to the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual Student Union (GLBSU). Throughout the mid-to-late 2000's, GLBSU began to feel pressure from its members and those in the community to change its name to something more inclusive of other sexual orientation and gender-based communities. Though the organization voted a number of times to adopt a new name, the required two-thirds majority was never reached on any given name until early 2009, when the membership decided upon the name "Equal."
Our Programs
 |
Diva Invasion Since 1996
Diva Invasion was started by Equal in 1996, and has grown to become one of Central Florida's largest GLBTQ community events! Provocative color schemes, stunning set designs, and captivating performances come together to make Diva Invasion the unique masterpiece that it is. In fact, Diva Invasion 2007 was named Event of the Year by UCF's Office of Student Involvement. |
 |
FCPC Conference Since 2003
The Florida Collegiate Pride Coalition is a collective of student organizations from across the state that support GLBTQ issues. Since it was started by Equal in 2003, the conference has been held at a different college or university every year, and is returning to UCF for 2010! The conference provides college students from across the state with opportunities to learn about various issues in the GLBTQ community, to connect with other students from other universities, and to develop their own leadership skills. |
 |
Spring Gayla Since 2007
Equal held its first Spring Gayla formal in 2007 at the Fairwinds Alumni Center on UCF's main campus. The dance is modeled after a typical high school prom, with some added class. Gayla not only provides an exciting event to end the spring semester, but, for many students who were not out in high school or who weren't able to bring a same-sex date to their prom, it is a chance to re-experience prom without the pressure, fear, or persecution they may have felt in high school. |
 |
Come Out With Pride Since 2001 |
 |
Student Advocating For Equality (SAFE) |
| |
Out!doors Since 2009 |
 |
Weekly Meetings |
| |
Social Events |
| |
Volunteering |
 |
Community Building with Color Teams |
 |
Leadership Development |
Past Activities
 |
Gay Days Welcome Party June 2008 |
| |
Queer Monologues |
