The University of the Philippines Baguio, through its Kasarian Gender Studies Program, showed solidarity in the celebration of Pride Month in a program held at the UP Baguio Oblation Grounds, on 25 June 2021.
In the short program held morning of Friday, UP Baguio Chancellor Corazon L. Abansi, who also currently serves as convener of Kasarian, affirmed the UP Baguio campus as a safe place for all including LGBTQIA+ people. In a symbolic ceremony, Chancellor Abansi waved the Pride flag and handed it over to Miz Kiki Krunch who also delivered a message. In her message, Miz Kiki recalled her college days, being Francis Siapno Lopez, at UP Baguio and how the University community was welcoming and nurturing especially to the youth. She also expressed the call for justice for all members of the LGBTQ+ community who are victims of violence and discrimination. Born in 2019, Miz Kiki Krunch is the drag personality of LGBTQ+ advocate Francis Siapno Lopez.
Miz Kiki and Chancellor Cora were joined by Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, Dr. Rosemary M. Gutierrez, and the rest of the members of the UP Baguio community during this simple and meaningful gathering. Minimum health security protocols were observed the entire program.
𝐌𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐚𝐠𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐔𝐏 𝐁𝐚𝐠𝐮𝐢𝐨 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐨𝐫
Pride is the promotion of the self-affirmation, dignity, equality and increased visibility of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people as a social group. As opposed to shame and social stigma, pride is the predominant outlook that bolsters most LGBT rights movements. This June, we celebrate pride month as a time to recall the trials the LGBTQ+ community has endured and to rejoice in the triumphs as they continue to fight for full equality. There are still many spaces and places where LGBTQ+ individuals still lack protection for fundamental rights and dignity. We continue to witness violence against them as well as harassment and bullying in many settings. Ending violence and discrimination against them demands our continued focus and diligence. Let us recognize their resilience and determination to live freely and authentically. Let us open our hearts and minds and affirm our resolve to uphold the dignity of all people and dedicate ourselves to protecting the most vulnerable including the LGBTQ+ community. As Chancellor of UP Baguio, I enjoin everyone to celebrate with us on this special day of pride. With the rainbow flag waving freely in the air, let us join our own LGBT community in all events they have prepared to celebrate this important event. Mabuhay kayo!
#UPBaguio #Pride #Pride2021 #Kasarian
