On Wednesday night, students were given the chance to discuss the intersection between athletics and the LGBTQIAP (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, Queer, Intersex, Asexual and Pansexual) community in a forum hosted by student group SHADES.

“LGBTQIA Athletes” discussed the experience of openly LGBTQIAP athletes, both on collegiate and professional levels, and how they have paved the way for a safer space in athletics at college campuses across the nation.

Amanda Melendez, the interim president for SHADES and a sophomore majoring in psychology, said it is important to show students that there is a place for them to go on campus.

“We’re all about making sure that we create a safe space for people to come to, and making sure that we have that,” Melendez said. “I hope [students] take away a sense that they have a place they can come to when they need some guidance.”

Attendees began by discussing general questions posed by members of SHADES, such as if they personally knew any LGBTQIAP student-athletes or what they thought it meant to be a part of the sports community as a fan or athlete. To draw comparisons with the professional sports world, they discussed a recent event concerning boxer Manny Pacquiao, whose contract with Nike was terminated after he posted anti-LGBTQIAP comments on social media.

The opinions shared were varied, but one of the main points made addressed the statement Nike made. One student questioned whether or not they would have done the same with a different athlete, but most agreed that Nike was making a positive statement.

In regards to eliminating homophobia in sports, a question was raised about athletic brands and their role in supporting the LGBTQIAP community. Major athletic companies such as Nike, Adidas and Under Armour account for a large part of sports branding, and according to Melendez, it is important that they support LGBTQIAP issues.

“Their influence and their view of that can sway a lot of people and maybe change a view of what someone had before,” Melendez said.

Another question regarded professional sports leagues, such as the NFL and the NBA, and how they have reacted to people coming out as LGBTQIAP. These leagues have mainly remained supportive, the group determined, but not a lot of leagues have had to face these issues in general. A large portion of the discussion was about how they should react.

One student said that organizations should want athletes to feel safe, and adopt a welcoming attitude. Another student said that leagues were already supportive.

Stephanie Giatas, a senior double-majoring in psychology and chemistry, said that a lot of good opinions were shared, and these events are necessary because they encourage open dialogue.

“I think it’s not something that’s talked about often,” Giatas said. “We need something to get the conversation going to make more impactful changes.”

Brendan Keefe, a senior double-majoring in human development and German, said that he believes the first step in LGBTQIAP awareness in any field is education.

“That’s why having a meeting like this is important,” Keefe said. “Spreading knowledge and spreading awareness is really important.”