Student Athletes Create Group for Queer Athletes and Allies
In partnership with the Carnegie Mellon University Athletic Department, the Queer Athlete and Ally Collective (QAAC) is working to support queer athletes and create better allies.
QAAC is led by student-athletes who have three main goals:
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To amplify the voices of LGBTQIA+ athletes
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To teach people how to become better allies
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To provide resources to enhance athletes’ varsity athletics experience and support their queer journeys
“These three points will be driving forces behind decisions and events, but our hope is to create a community where athletes can come as they are to share the different pieces of who they are with one another beyond their sport and what they study,” President Jackie Ruhnke, a junior on the women’s swimming and diving team, said. “We hope this group forms new friendships while also providing education, resources, and support.”
On October 11, QAAC hosted its first official event, welcoming queer varsity athletes and allies from all sports to come together for cookie decorating. Participants received free stickers and temporary tattoos along with dozens of duck-shaped cookies to decorate.
In the future, QAAC plans to provide more events, education and resources to LGBTQ+ athletes and allies. They also plan to bring in speakers, raise money for non-profits and collaborate with other on-campus organizations.
“An LGBTQIA+ athlete affinity group has always been something athletes have needed,” Ruhnke said. “Queer people have always been athletes.”
QAAC recognizes that the struggles of queer athletes are often overshadowed by the positive energy needed in a team environment. QAAC hopes to combat this problem and provide a safe space for athletes not only to be heard but also to be understood.
“Your queerness and your identity make you a stronger, better athlete and leader, and we want every athlete to have the opportunity to feel empowered by who they are,” Ruhnke said.
For more information or to support QAAC’s mission, follow them on Instagram @cmu_qaac.