CU-Lock Haven LGBTQ Commission hosts virtual event with Rep. Brian Sims

In April, Lock Haven University welcomed State Rep. Brian Sims for a virtual Zoom event, "A Conversation with State Representative Brian Sims."

The event was sponsored by LHU's President's Commission on LGBTQ Affairs, in partnership with Bloomsburg and Mansfield universities.

Sims represents Center City Philadelphia in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives' 182nd legislative district. Elected in 2012, he became the first openly gay member of the Pennsylvania General Assembly.

He is a graduate of Bloomsburg University, supporter of Pennsylvania's State System of Higher Education and is dedicated to many initiatives including strengthening and protecting public education.

During the event, Sims told attendees his personal story of coming out, answered questions and discussed various topics with attendees - speaking to the students about what they can do to have their voices heard and how to make a difference with things they are passionate about.

"There is a common myth about young people and college students that they are not civically or politically engaged, but this could not be further from the truth," Sims said. "Working with young people, I encounter some of the most progressive, passionate, authentic and hardworking people in our Commonwealth. Young people have an inspiring drive to stand up for their peers, work collectively and make meaningful progress, and one of the most important roles of legislators is to remind them how powerful they are."

Sims spoke about some of the issues facing not only college students today, but everyone, and how to help combat these issues.

"The biggest issues that we face as human beings - climate change, racial and economic justice, LGBTQ+ and gender inequality, will be solved by the courageous generation that is growing up now, and it is so important that they have the tools and motivation they need to turn their passion into action," Sims said.
"Our PASSHE system is an indispensable resource and tool to ensure that young people across the commonwealth have access to a broad, comprehensive and first-class university education. LGBTQ+ students have the tools and the knowledge to truly effect change and to drive us in the direction that we need to go."

"I'm proud to be a product of a PASSHE school and I am more hopeful for our future after meeting with students at Lock Haven, Bloomsburg and Mansfield universities," Sims said.