AU recognized National Coming Out Week, which began Monday, with a series of presentations, speakers and workshops.
AU Queers and Allies and the GLBTA (Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender and Ally) Resource Center are co-sponsoring the events.
"It's a way to celebrate people who are GLBTA and their roles in the community," said Allison Waithe, president of AU Queers and Allies. "Coming out is a really big part of a person's life."
Waithe expected Monday's event, "S+M 101," to attract the biggest crowds. The program explored sadomasochist culture and practice.
"It was kind of a draw because people thought it was dark and strange," Waithe said, noting that S+M 101 was the most popular National Coming Out Week event last year.
Freshman David Pomeroy, who attended the presentation, said that he wasn't expecting many people to come to the event, but the room was "absolutely packed."
"It was wonderful to see all of these great people of every possible background and sexuality freely discussing issues that are taboo in mainstream America," he said. "And everyone was having fun."
The discussion "Is Choice a GLBTA Issue?" on Tuesday explored the reproductive rights of the GLBTA community.
Wednesday night in the Tavern, KPU speaker Ingrid Rivera shared poetry about GLBTA culture.
Tonight's workshop, "Out of the Dark," is a new event this year that covers information helpful for those who have just come out or are considering doing so. "Dupont with Queers and Allies," a trip to Dupont Circle for pizza will take place Friday.
Waithe said she hopes to attract more heterosexual participants this year.
"I want to plug it to the straight community especially. I think a lot of people think that they can't get involved in the GLBTA community if they're straight, but I'm straight and I'm the president [of AU Queers and Allies]," she said.
Sophomore Jordan Beane said he thinks the event will have the most meaning for members of the GLBTA community.
"I believe it's important because a number of our students are ... into alternative lifestyles, and it gives those unsure a place to come out in a comfortable and accepting situation," he said.
