“Heartstopper” viewing party allows for discussion and celebrates LGBTQ+ students on campus

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In an effort to assist in the rebuilding of LGBTQ+ presence on campus, the Office of Equity and Inclusion hosted a viewing party of the Netflix series “Heartstopper.”

The event was held in the Lucks Conference room and included watching episodes of the series and a discussion of the themes and challenges that are represented in the queer community. 

This is an extension of a previous event, Queer Sprinkle, in which LGBTQ+ students could make connections and enhance their community on campus. 

Students can also participate on March 29, at 6 p.m.

“Heartstopper” follows Charlie, a young gay boy who falls in love with his classmate Nick, and their progression from friends to something more. 

Vincent Cascio, Associate Director of Student Equity and Inclusion, thought this was a good way to bring students together and have a healthy discussion around queer experiences and the impact it may have on society. 

“‘Heartstopper’ is a fun, light-hearted rom-com that doesn’t take itself too seriously, but also presents the Queer experience in a healthy light,” said Cascio. “It still highlights some of the challenges of those within the Queer community experience, but it is also very relatable regardless of sexual orientation.” 

One of the things that the show has been praised for is the fact that the LGBTQ+ characters are not overly sexualized, which is common for popular shows to do. The show allows for a natural and authentic courtship between the two main characters and to be able to express their feelings openly. 

Cascio believes it’s important for the LGBTQ+ community to have a safe space and support one another on campus. Cascio hopes that these types of events can help determine needs on campus and reform what was formerly the Queer Straight Alliance (QSA) and expand it. 

“The level of engagement for the LGBTQ+ community took a hit on campus due to the pandemic, it restricted opportunities to come together and strengthen the presence on campus,” said Cascio. 

He continued, “Now that we are approaching a post-pandemic world, we have to rebuild our community and determine what that means, what it looks like and what type of presence we want to have at EU.”