“Best Rainbow Attire,” “Best Rainbow Pet” and best personal records were all tracked at this year’s 7th Annual Rainbow Run at Risman Plaza (and online) on Oct. 7.
The Rainbow Run, a 5K hosted by the Kent State LGBTQ+ Center, raises money for the LGBTQ Emergency fund, a service that assists LGBTQ+ students in financial crises. Though there was the obstacle of rain, the run garnered more than $5,000 towards the fund this year with around 200 attendees.
Ken Ditlevson, director of the LGBTQ+ Center, said the event’s turnout was a success and wants students who identify as LGBTQ+ to know they are supported through events like this at Kent State.
“Physical wellness is a big important part that also impacts our mental wellness,” Ditlevson said. “So having events like this allows people to come together in a fun, safe environment where people of all levels can be celebrated and have a good time.”
The run itself is an on-campus 5-kilometer course that students and non-students can decide to walk, stroll, run or roll. Participants could also participate virtually and do a route of their choosing as part of the fundraiser.
It’s also a way for students who identify as LGBTQ+ to meet others they may not have met otherwise - other members of the LGBTQ+ community and allies. The LGBTQ+ Center on campus hosts events like this to support its students by fundraising and providing networking opportunities.
“I heard stories of people that walked or ran and didn't know people. But then by the end, they find people, and they're able to connect,” Ditlevson said. “Those connections really can turn into lifelong friends or partners, so that networking piece I think is also really beneficial.”
On top of running and making new friends, students could also win prizes for “Best Rainbow Attire” or “Best Rainbow Pet” by posting themselves on social media with the Rainbow Run hashtag.
For more LGBTQ+ Center upcoming events, please visit www.kent.edu/lgbtq/lgbtq-programs-and-events.
For more information on the LGBTQ+ Center, please visit www.kent.edu/lgbtq.