This year, I had the privilege of attending MBLGTACC 2017. A conference that, as of this year, has been alive and thriving for 25 years.
For those who don't know, MBLGTACC stands for the Midwestern Bi, Lesbian, Gay, Trans, Ace/Ally College Conference. It is always put on by students, and each year, it is held in a new location. This year, I was fortunate enough to be able to travel to Chicago to participate. Next year, however, it will be put on by the University of Nebraska Omaha.
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This Conference covers everything from basic information to some more in-depth topics, such as marketing for an LGBT+ organization. The rooms of the large conference hall at Chicago's Navy Pier were all packed with people wanting to learn more about the LGBT+ community.
But now that we've covered the basics, I'd like to share my personal experience with you.
This was my first time ever attending the conference, and I have to say, I didn't really know what to expect going in. I didn't know if the speakers' words would resonate with me, or how accepting the people there would be.
However, as soon as I walked in, my worries were eased. I was struck by the sheer magnitude of the sense of community that everyone held toward each other. People I'd never met before welcomed me as a friend and would offer me the seat next to them in the crowded workshop rooms. I don't know if I've ever seen such a friendly group of people before.
On top of that, each speaker I saw was able to teach me something I didn't already know, whether that be about myself, or about the community as a whole. At several points, things that I'd never understood before suddenly became clear, and I began to feel like everything was starting to make sense again.
I attended forums and workshops on everything from poetry writing to the experience of religious LGBT+ individuals, the latter of which was probably my favorite talk of all. I learned new ways to communicate my thoughts to those who previously might not have listened. I learned that no part of me is contradictory, and that I am allowed to be who I am.
So even though I came to MBLGTACC not knowing what to expect, I left with a wealth of knowledge and experiences that were unlike anything else.
If you've never been before, I highly recommend it. It doesn't matter if you identify as an ally or as part of the larger community; the experience will be one you'll never forget.
