21/07/2025
Pride is not limited to June. It lives in everyday acts of self-acceptance, the formation of chosen families, and the ongoing fight to be seen. But June offers something different: visibility. For one month, the spotlight turns toward the LGBTQIA+ community, creating space to be loud, joyful, and unapologetically authentic. That visibility mattersโnot because Pride begins and ends in June, but because for a brief time, the world pauses to witness what has always been there.
This year marked a milestone as the institution celebrated its first-ever Pride Month with the theme, โOrgulla Y Bellezas: Pride and Beauty.โ Laz Bellezas, together with the different academic organizations, prepared activities promoting visibility, inclusivity, and solidarity for the LGBTQIA+ community. Still, challenges remain in the fight for safer and more inclusive spaces.
The BEACON Publications, in partnership with Laz Bellezas, interviewed prominent individuals of the university to shed light on what support system and rules safeguarding the rights of q***r Ateneans were in place. University President Fr. Guillrey Anthony โErnaldโ Andal, SJ, shared about the installation of a safeguarding officerโdesignated to assist individuals who experience discrimination within the University to ensure concerns are properly addressed. With the Vice President for Administration Fr. Richard V. Ella, he affirmed that his office remains open to anyone seeking dialogue on gender-related issues. Both emphasized the universityโs commitment to building a more inclusive and supportive environment.
Their words are a challenge and a call to action. May this first step toward inclusion lead to stronger allyship and deeper understanding across the Ateneo community. The celebration of Pride Month in AdZU is only the beginning of a journey towards acceptance and equality.
Directed by Althea Jamandron, Marianellie Dacillo
Edited by Marianellie Dacillo
Cinematography by Raymond Vincent Siyluy
Script by Althea Jamandron
