Somewhere Over the Rainbow: 6 Ways to Find LGTBQIA Inclusion in Grand Forks

Finding LGBTQIA inclusion in Grand Forks is not as difficult as you might think. When I moved to Grand Forks, one of the first things that was important to me was finding a sense of community. We have some really great visible leaders in the community who are making a difference every day and continue to promote inclusion. In the short six years that I have lived in Grand Forks, I have seen such large growth in LGBTQIA inclusion and take pride in being part of a community that strives for excellence. Here are a few ways you can find acceptance and community in Grand Forks!

Yass Queen! Looking for an evening of fun entertainment and good company? Check out one of BJ Armani’s shows featuring the best local Drag Queens, Drag Kings, Burlesque and more. Although most shows are 18+, you will find family friendly fun at the all-ages Drag shows.

There is nothing more exciting than attending a Pride Event, and you can do that right here in Grand Forks! Each year at the end of summer, Grand Forks hosts Pride to celebrate the LGBTQIA community. From cookouts and brunch to vendor booths and a Drag show, there’s something for everyone! It’s a great time to come together as a community and celebrate. I’ve loved being involved with the Pride planning committee because I’ve met so many LGBTQIA people in Grand Forks who take pride in our community.

For many college students, finding your people is so important. The Pride Center at the University of North Dakota is a great place for college students to connect with other LGBTQIA students, and it helps connect you with groups like the Queer and Trans Alliance, National Gay Pilots Association Chapter, and Allies in Medicine. The Pride Center is a gathering place for LGBTQIA students to be their authentic self, explore their identity, find community and so much more. My work at UND is actually serving the LGBTQIA community on campus and providing support resources, education, and advocacy to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for all. The greatest part about this coming fall on UND’s campus? There will be a brand new Pride Center located in the newly constructed Memorial Union. Come check it out!

Finding LGBTQIA inclusion in Grand Forks can happen right in our school district as well! Many of the schools in Grand Forks have Gender & Sexuality Alliances for students to join along with educators and counselors who are ready to support students in all aspects of their identities. I’ve had firsthand experience working with some really amazing educators for some LGBTQIA inclusive training and learning about all they are doing to support LGBTQIA youth. New this past year and continuing into the fall is the Grand Forks Public Schools Mentor Center which has offered an LGBTQIA youth group for students to connect across the district and have a space to be true to themselves.

For coffee enthusiasts, head on over to Archives Coffee House to get a cup of coffee and bakery treats! Archives is an LGBTQIA-owned business with responsibly sourced coffee and actively promotes a welcoming environment for all. Archives is one of my favorite places to hold meetings on UND’s campus because I can fill my coffee addiction and have a comfortable place to gather. Archives has hosted many Grand Forks Pride events over the years and continues to be a beacon of acceptance in the community.

Libraries have always served as a community place for learning, innovation, creativity, and making connections. What makes the Grand Forks Public Library so special? Two words: the staff. They are some of the most caring people and have demonstrated this through their acceptance of LGBTQIA people. From wearing different colors of the rainbow each day during Pride Month and decorating their lobby, to featuring LGBTQIA books for all ages, the staff stay true to their commitment to diversity and inclusion. The library is more than just a place to find books, there are great programs available to children, teens, and adults! Come check it out!