I’m proud to be me

Pre-medical biology freshman Sara Velasco (from left), education junior Rubie Ortega and pre-medical biology freshman Lucero Rodriguez pose for a photo in front of the “Coming Out Door” hosted by the Student Equality Alliance during National Coming Out Day today at the Student Union. Gabriel Mata/The Rider

Kathia Rodriguez (from left), an anthropology freshman, Miriam Barrae, a computer engineering freshman, and Denise Cepeda, an exercise science sophomore, pick up fliers from Planned Parenthood Texas Votes during the National coming Out Day event today in Brownsville. The UTRGV Counseling Service Office and Student Union hosted the event. Michelle Espinoza/The Rider

Biology freshman Robert Escobar signs up for Access for Sex-Education during National Coming Out Day today at the Student Union in Edinburg. The organization provides college students with knowledge to remain free from sexually transmitted diseases and unplanned pregnancy. Gabriel Mata/The Rider

Planned Parenthood Texas Votes youth organizer Sadie Hernandez informs psychology freshman Arely Larrea about the 1in3 campaign during the National Coming Out Day event held today on the Brownsville campus. Today marks the 28th anniversary of National Coming Out Day. Michelle Espinoza/The Rider

Jose Benavides, a Spanish translation and interpreting graduate student, signs up for the Student Equality Alliance today during National Coming Out Day at the Student Union in Edinburg. The Student Equality Alliance promotes education on LGBTQ issues and experiences as well as a safe and supportive environment for LGBTQ individuals. Gabriel Mata/The Rider

Juan Villela (background), director of the Transgender Buddy Program, hands out fliers to medicine sophomore Samuel Chavez during the National Coming Out Day event held today on the Brownsville campus. Michelle Espinoza/The Rider