Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is the Lavender Graduation (LG)?

Intended to complement the general graduation ceremony, LG is a unique commencement celebration for LGBTIQ-identified graduates of all races and ethnicities. Heterosexual ally graduates are also encouraged to participate.

Q: Is the LG a separate graduation ceremony?

Simply put, no. The LG is a supplemental commencement ceremony intended to complement that main commencement ceremonies. In no way is this graduation intended to conflict with, or replace, one’s CSULB college graduation.

Q: When is the LG?

The LG is scheduled for Saturday May 16, 2009, 2pm-5pm at the Beach Auditorium on the 1st floor of the University Student Union.

Q: Who is coordinating the LG?

The LG planning committee consists of student organizers who collaborate with the LGBT Resource Center on campus. Faculty/Staff advisors and a number of other on-campus departments are also assisting in ensuring a successful event.

Q: What does LGBTIQA stand for?

The acronym LGBTIQA represents a broad array of various identities including (and not limited to):

• L—Lesbian
• G—Gay
• B—Bisexual
• T—Transsexual/Transgender
• I—Intersex
• Q—Queer/Questioning
• A—Ally

Q: What is an ally?

An ally is a person who sympathizes with, fights for, believes in, and unconditionally accepts LGBTIQ-identified persons.

Q: Can I participate in the LG if I am straight?

Absolutely. Because Allies take a stand when injustices against LGBTIQ-persons are perpetuated, your participation is requested.

Q: Is this ceremony only for undergraduates of CSULB?

Not at all. The LG is open to all graduates of CSULB, from all of the colleges.

Q: Does it cost anything to participate in the LG?

Yes. The LG is $35 for graduating seniors. This entitles graduates with a Lavender Stole, a rainbow tassel, light refreshments after the ceremony, and up to 5 tickets for their guests. Additional tickets for guests are $3.00 each.

Q: Is there anything that I need to do right now if I am a graduating senior?

Click on the “Registration for Graduates” link on the left side of your screen. Fill out the information fields and from there you will be kept up to date on any online information.

Q: I want to help plan and volunteer for next year’s LavGrad. How do I sign up?

We are always looking for volunteers. Because this is an event that will continue for years to come, we are encouraging freshman and sophomores especially to step forward and help with the planning so that when you graduate you will already know how to organize this event smoothly. Please email the LGBT Resource Center at lgbtrc@csulb.edu to join the fun!

Q: I am not graduating but would like to attend the LG and help at LG. How do I sign up?

Yes. To help with the logistics of the ceremony we ask that you Sign up as soon as possible. Simply send an email to Nick Arciniega with your name.