On March 9, St. Edward’s University’s student-led Equity and Justice Collective organized a queer expo showcasing student and alumni small businesses. Booths lined Ragsdale Lawn covered in lively art prints, handmade jewelry and screen-printed totes and t-shirts. Students flooded the booths as they walked to and from class, stopping to support their local Hilltoppers.

“We are all queer-identifying in some form or fashion whether that is sexuality, gender identity, or self-expression,” said Al Whitaker, a third-generation jewelry designer. “We have all come together to celebrate diversity, uniqueness and to say that we are people too that make beautiful things for queer folks and allies by and in support of queer people.”

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Representation and unity were at the forefront of the event as many gathered to engage in a safe space to support local queer artists and allies. Curator and soon-to-be Parsons School of Design graduate student, Emily Bryn, is pictured discussing the inspiration behind her graphic art pieces to passing students. Behind them stands her handmade screen-printed clothing line and totes combating the detention centers and the overarching power of ICE in recent years.