All this week, the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community and allies have a chance to come together at educational and social events, as members of the community celebrate Coming Out Week.

Today, a panel from the Unitarian Universalist Church will speak about religion and faith in the LGBT community. This type of event is new for PRIDE!Kent.

“One of the things I think PRIDE has been lacking in the past is a focus on religion,” PRIDE!Kent President Colleen Eltibi said.

Tomorrow at the Ice Arena, PRIDE!Kent will host Queers on Ice. Eltibi said this event is a fun way for people to come together, and has had a successful turnout in the past. Skating and skate rental will be offered for the discounted price of $5.

Thursday marks National Coming Out Day, which is also the 20th anniversary of the 1987 Gay and Lesbian March on Washington. PRIDE!Kent will hold its usual Thursday meeting that day, but Eltibi said it will be a “coming out extravaganza,” and anyone choosing to “come out” will be welcomed with open arms — and glitter.

PRIDE!Kent executive board members will also share their own coming out stories with members.

Eltibi said the usual week-long celebration will extend throughout the rest of the month. Later this month, PRIDE!Kent will also host a trans-awareness day, in which a student from the University of Akron will speak about his own experience. Also, the group’s HalloQueen will take place around the time of Halloween. Eltibi said the event will have costumes and, hopefully, performers.

— Christina Stavale