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Wilkes University notes Transgender Day of Visibility

Students, faculty, and staff gathered in Luzerne County to recognize the transgender community while pledging to make the Wilkes campus a safe space for everyone.

WILKES-BARRE, Pa. — For the third year, a ceremony has been held in the Fenner quadrangle on Wilkes University's campus for Transgender Day of Visibility.

"To when you hear someone say that they are trans, when you have someone speak and tell you, that is a vulnerable moment for them, so take that moment to choose kindness and understanding," said Wilkes student Jai Manning.

The transgender flag was raised during the short ceremony to show members of the community that Wilkes is dedicated to providing a safe space.

"You bring value to this community is much more than we bring value to you. We strive very hard to create the environment in which all of our students, regardless of their sexuality, regardless of their preferences, regardless of their lived experiences, feel welcome," said David Ward, senior vice president and provost for Wilkes University.

"The first Transgender Day of Visibility event was the first time I honestly had seen other transgender people before. Having events like this is important because it helps you feel not so alone in this world, where you can feel so alone in your own experience," said student Ozzie Priebe.

"As an educator, as a parent, and as a member of the community, it really matters to me that this be a space that is safe and inclusive and supportive for our students," said Helen Davis, professor and gender and sexuality alliance.

Trans students like Priebe tell Newswatch 16 that Wilkes University was the first place he felt seen. He felt like he could be himself and feel supported and his life experience.

"They have a name change form. It's very easy to fill out and they'll get back to you very quickly about it. They also offer gender-inclusive housing. So even though on my birth certificate it says that I'm female, I'm allowed to live in male housing," Priebe said.

"This is often an experience for students coming to college for the first time. It's an amazing thing to get to watch," Davis said.

Transgender Day of Visibility continued with a 1980s-themed dance on campus in Wilkes-Barre.

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