About the show:

​“Without community, there is no liberation...”
-Audre Lorde

Finding spaces to be their authentic selves is increasingly difficult for queer folks, trans folks, and other marginalized groups. At Worcester State, students, faculty, staff, and alumni can find such a space at the LGBTQIA+ Community Center, a welcoming campus home for all Lancers to be their true selves. In celebration of the Center’s 2026 Lavender Graduation ceremony, “Community Voices” invited LGBTQIA+ and ally students and alumni to uplift our community through the transformative power of art.

This show was a unique opportunity to exhibit work in the LGBTQIA+ Community Center. The exhibition also served as a backdrop to the Lavender Graduation on May 6, 2026.

Jurors for this exhibition included LGBTQIA+ Center Director Stevie Edwards, MCD Gallery Director and VPA Art professor Stacey Parker, and VPA Art professor Brad Chapman.

About the Center
The LGBTQIA+ Community Center is a welcoming campus space for every Lancer to be their true selves. There is a lounge and study area where regular programming occurs and guests can be in community with each other during open hours. Additionally, the Center provides resources, safer sex supplies, and staff connections to anyone.

Mission
The LGBTQIA+ Community Center works to be an inclusive space and programming hub where everyone is welcome. We support students, faculty, and staff of all gender identities, sexual orientations, and gender expressions through programming, education, and advocacy.

Vision
The LGBTQIA+ Community Center is committed to the vision of collective liberation for all marginalized peoples. We hope to make our campus a more supportive environment for the LGBTQIA+ community and a more inclusive home for every Lancer. 

May we thrive, love, and celebrate together. ​