1970s
January 20, 1978
“Council adopts resolution opposing discrimination against homosexuals”
By Anne Bridgman
In 1978, the Student Council passed a non-discrimination resolution supporting equal rights for gay students in areas like housing, academics and campus activities. Although former University President Frank L. Hereford Jr. said current laws do not require the school to act, the Council’s efforts showed growing awareness and concern for fair treatment.
1980s
April 3, 1980
“Gay groups foster unity, offer social activities”
By Vince Brotski
Photos by Ken Bronfin
The Gay Student Union and Charlottesville Lesbian Feminists were formed to support gay students who felt isolated at the University. These groups provide safe spaces, social events and educational programs that help members feel seen and like they belong. Despite early challenges with recognition and funding, both groups played a key role in creating a vital support network for gay students.
April 3, 1984
“Merrill gets Law petition”
By Amy Lemley and Marie Joyce
In 1984, the Gay and Lesbian Law Students Association presented a petition during Gay Awareness Week, signed by 450 Law students, urging the School of Law to adopt a clear non-discrimination policy on sexual orientation and publicize it in its admissions materials, where it had been noticeably absent compared to other law schools at the time. Former Dean Richard Merrill expressed support and planned to propose the change to faculty, expecting no objections. The group hoped the policy would help ease concerns among future LGBTQ+ students.
1990s
October 28, 1997
“Events foster student awareness”
By Carolyn Malcom
Photos by Christine Tollefson
The University’s LGBTQ+ community gained visibility through “Proud to be Out Week” sponsored by the Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Affairs Committee in 1997, which featured workshops, discussions and events aimed at raising awareness, building confidence and encouraging inclusivity. By hosting co-sponsored events with various groups, the organizers hoped to attract a more diverse and broad audience, encouraging greater understanding and helping to reduce the homophobia experienced by many LGBTQ+ students.
April 7, 1999
“Day of Silence”
By Sarah Torrey
Photos by Tengku Bahar
The Day of Silence Project, founded in 1996, encouraged students to remain silent for a day to protest the silence surrounding LGBTQ+ issues and to raise awareness about homophobia. What started with only 100 students had expanded nationally by 1997, with participation from 100 schools. Organizers hoped the project would inspire reflection, promote inclusivity and eventually eliminate the need for such demonstrations.
2000s
October 13, 2000
“New LGBT center opens for students”
By Maria Tor
After two years of advocacy, the University opened its first LGBT resource center in 2000 to provide support, information and a safe space for LGBTQ+ students. Staffed by a graduate intern and undergraduate volunteers, the center offered books, pamphlets and programming funded by the University and alumni donors.
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