Queer As Folks

Minnesota Out! Campus conference

Minnesota GLBTA Campus Alliance held its fourth annual Minnesota OUT! Campus Conference on November 14-15. The organization strives to build a statewide network of individuals and groups working for equality and justice on issues of gender and sexual diversity; to empower the voices of those underserved and underrepresented in campus communities; and to create welcoming, affirming, and safe environments on college and university campuses throughout Minnesota. The conference is the annual statewide get-together to discus issues facing GLBTA students, staff, and faculty on college and university campuses. For more information, visit www.mncampusalliance.org.

18th Annual Holidazzle Parade 

The 18th annual Holidazzle Parade began November 27 and goes through December 20. It has become a staple of Minneapolis during the holidays, drawing thousands of people each year. Every Thursday through Sunday night, the parade runs along Nicollet Mall in Downtown Minneapolis, For those who want to see Holidazzle, but don’t like the cold, a heated tent offers complimentary hot cocoa and cider—tickets are $9. Or, you can brave the cold for free, and enjoy the brightly lit parade.

Open Arms Completes Capital Campaign

On November 30, just in time for the holidays, Open Arms announced that it has raised the $8.1 million needed for its new building. The successful completion of the capital campaign ensures that it will receive $1.2 million in challenge grants from the Kresage and Bush Foundations. To celebrate this achievement, Open Arms held an open house on December 1, World AIDS Day, at the new building, 25th Street and Bloomington Avenue in Minneapolis. Donations still can be made to the campaign. They will be used to expand the program to serve more clients. For more information, or to donate, visit www.openarmsmn.org.