Coming Out Day is a national holiday created by GLSEN that takes place on October 11 every year. SPECTRUM celebrated this amazing event to honor all of our out-of-the-closet LGBTQ+ within the school. Coming out can be terrifying for closeted LGBTQ+ members, and SPECTRUM felt it necessary to let members know that they are not alone and that they will always be supported. SPECTRUM, formerly known as GSA, is a club that strives to create a safe space for all students regardless of sexual orientation, gender expression and race. This goal is tackled through social activism and team building within the meetings.

“It’s a time to celebrate the bravery and courage the LGBTQ+ community must face when sharing with the world who they are.” Ms. Vanessa Anguiano, SPECTRUM advisor said.

SPECTRUM is an acronym; Sexuality. Pride. Education. Culture. Truth. Respect. Unity. Mental Health Movement. The name change is to show Spring Valley students that this club  are welcoming of all people and care about more than just issues regarding the LGBTQ+ community. However, SPECTRUM cares very deeply about the community and does not welcome bigotry of any kind. “We take pride in providing support and visibility for the queer youth in our school. By providing a club like this on campus because it lets students know that there is a safe place, and that there are students/teachers on campus who are accepting of them.” Says SPECTRUM President. Director of research for GLSEN, Emily Greytak, says “…research has shown that LGBTQ students who do not have a GSA in their school experience a higher level of anti-LGBTQ language and feel less safe. Without a GSA or student group to provide support and visibility, students are often left feeling alone and isolated.”

“It is especially essential we celebrate this in light of the 3 supreme court cases regarding the lack of protection our community faces in the job field” Alexis Ortega, SPECTRUM president.

SPECTRUM is excited for November 20, which is Transgender Remembrance because they’ve invited in the Gender Justice Association to talk about important Transgender icons and history as well as helping students understand gender expression more.

SPECTRUM meets every Wednesday in room 209 during lunch.