The Student Safe Zone held a training workshop Tuesday, Feb. 24 that helped raise awareness for students on campus who may be lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or queer/questioning.

English professor Ja’net Danielo held a presentation on multiple identities and how students define themselves.

People in attendance wrote on an index card some phrases that described themselves and would then share with fellow students.

At times some of these identities can clash with one another as one student would say that he is both gay and a catholic.

Danielo asked those in attendance, “What makes our identity? Why are they important to us? Would you have trouble keeping one of these identities hidden from others and are there some that you would not want others to find out about?”

Samantha Ybanez, culinary arts major, gave a passionate speech about her struggles growing up.

Ybanez is also in the Make-It-Happen Club.

The club helps other clubs and students raise money through fundraisers for their activities that they may not be able to finance.

In the past they were able to raise money to help fund a small film for a club and organized a collection of clothing for women veterans. Students interested in joining the club can send an email to [email protected].

Rosa Carrillo, counselor, spoke on how students can help others who may be dealing with depression or issues with their sexual identity.

Training is available to students on www.kognito.com/ccc. The sign up process is quick and simple. The program helps promote awareness and to help promote a supportive campus for all students.

The training is done in the form of a game where dialogue options are available after seeing scenarios.

After completing scenarios students can print out a certificate showing they have completed training which can then be used for their portfolios.

History professor George Jarrett held a brief presentation on the history of the LGBTQ community and the struggles members of the community have faced in the United States.

The next and final Student Safe Zone workshop will be held Tuesday, March 24 in room SS 140.