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Lambda’s Sarah Smith is a self-described “super-senior” studying Communications and Psychology. UM’s Lambda Alliance is one of several groups on campus supporting members of the LGBTQ community. We look out for one another, we support one another, and we strive to make the world a better place," Engstrom said.
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“Missoula and the University of Montana is a very special place, and it is no surprise to me that all of you gathered tonight and gathered on Sunday night, because that’s who we are in Missoula. Our university, our community, our country," said UM President Royce Engstrom.Įngstrom recognized Shane Sangrey, the student resource advisor in UM’s Native American Center for Excellence who suggested lighting Main Hall with rainbow colors. “We were all saddened on behalf of those folks in Orlando, of course, but on behalf of all of us. The plain brick building was lit with the colors of the gay pride flag to support the victims of last Sunday’s massacre in Orlando. In Missoula, nearly 100 people gathered in front of the University of Montana’s Main Hall last night to see a rainbow. It is open to all members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community, and those who support them. The weekend celebration includes meals, entertainment and dancing, along with a bike ride, parade and rally on Saturday. Organizers are expecting more than 1,500 people to attend the Big Sky Pride celebration in Great Falls this weekend.īut following the mass shooting at a gay club in Orlando this past weekend that left 50 people dead and 53 more injured, Big Sky Pride President Kev Hamm of Helena says he hopes the event that starts this afternoon will draw a much bigger crowd.Ĭlose to 5,000 people attended last year's parade in Missoula.