Arib Hassam (he/him) is an SMC student entering his fourth year, specializing in Psychology and minoring in Buddhism and Mental Health. Beyond academic pursuits, Arib enjoys working out, practicing yoga, meditating, and immersing himself in music. He is a residence don and serves on the St. Michael’s College Student Union (SMCSU). Motivated by his personal lived experiences, Arib is passionate about being a mentor and leader for young queer individuals. He aspires to work with 2SLGBTQ+ youth in therapeutic settings or other community-based roles, striving to make a positive impact on their lives.
When I was applying to colleges at U of T, St. Mike’s was my last option due to its religious affiliation. As a queer individual, I feared the potential for religious discrimination that often accompanies such environments. The thought of attending a Catholic institution filled me with immense anxiety. You can imagine my surprise when I received my acceptance letter in the mail indicating that I was assigned to St. Mike’s. After much consideration, I decided to give it a chance, albeit with great apprehension.
Upon arriving at St. Mike’s, I quickly discovered that my fears, while understandable, were largely unfounded. The community here welcomed me with open arms, and I found signs of acceptance that eased my fears. It was the little things, like seeing the Pride flag at Kelly Library, that made a significant difference. These small gestures of inclusivity spoke volumes and began to change my perception of what it meant to be a queer person at a Catholic institution.
The first Pride SMC event I attended was a modest gathering with only about three or four attendees. Despite the small turnout, the sense of camaraderie and support was palpable. Fast forward to our first Drag Show on campus, and we had more than 50 attendees celebrating together. The transformation was incredible, and it was heartwarming to see our club grow and flourish in such a short time. I feel as though this growth is a testament to the need for spaces on campus where 2SLGBTQ+ individuals can feel safe, supported, and celebrated.
Pride SMC is essential for the SMC community, especially within a Catholic institution like St. Mike’s. It is important to recognize that there are queer Catholic individuals who deserve a safe space to express their identities without fear of judgment or discrimination. Intersectionality plays a key role in understanding the diverse experiences within our community. Our club strives to honor and celebrate these diverse identities, ensuring everyone feels seen and valued.
The current climate, marked by a rise in anti-trans and queer rhetoric, makes our work more important than ever. We must stand up to hate and continue to advocate for acceptance and equality. Pride SMC was founded to create a safe and inclusive environment for 2SLGBTQ+ students, staff, and faculty, and this mission remains at the core of everything we do. Our efforts are ongoing, and it is crucial that we have the support of the administration to ensure the club’s longevity and effectiveness.
One of the most rewarding aspects of being part of Pride SMC is witnessing the positive impact we have on individuals. I’ve seen firsthand how our events and initiatives have provided a sense of belonging and community to many who felt isolated. Every event we host, from our small gatherings to special events like the Drag Show, are an opportunity to connect, support, and uplift one another. Additionally, simply having a presence on campus is something we should never take for granted. In a world where queer visibility can still be met with resistance, our existence as a recognized club at a Catholic institution is a powerful statement. It shows that we are here, we are proud, and we are part of this community.
For me personally, being involved with Pride SMC has been a transformative experience. It has given me a platform to share my story and advocate for others. When I look back at my initial apprehension about attending St. Mike’s, I am reminded of how far we’ve come. I feel that my journey from fear to acceptance mirrors the journey of many 2SLGBTQ+ individuals at St. Mike’s.
If you are a student reading this, I encourage you to get involved with Pride SMC. We are currently hiring executive members for the upcoming school year, and it is a fantastic opportunity to make a difference and get involved. You can find more information on our Instagram @pridesmc.
In closing, being a part of Pride SMC has shown me the profound impact a supportive community can have. As we navigate the challenges and celebrate the victories, it’s clear that our presence here matters deeply. We are not just participants in a club but we are agents of change, creating ripples of acceptance and love in an environment that once seemed unwelcoming. Our mission aligns closely with some of the core values of St. Mike’s, such as human dignity, community, and social justice. Every event, every connection, and every show of solidarity strengthens our sense of community and reaffirms our commitment to making St. Mike’s a place where diversity is celebrated and everyone can truly belong.
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