LGBTQ+ students sell their creations at CSU’s Rainbow Pop-Up shop – The Cauldron
Abbey Safos (left) and Joey Dzingeleski (right) welcome students to the Rainbow Pop-Up on March 28, 2023 in the Student Center Atrium. Credit: Lydia Kacala
The Cleveland State University’s LGBTQ+ Center hosted a pop-up shop for local vendors from 1 to 5 p.m. on March 30 in the Student Center Atrium. The shop, thematically titled the Rainbow Pop-Up, featured items such as hand-knit scarves and hats, crystals, artwork and jewelry.
The shop provided queer students an opportunity to take up space on campus and make money while doing it. It also garnered exposure for the LGBTQ+ center, located in room 211 of Berkman Hall.
“It’s an opportunity for queer students to be involved on campus and be supported by the campus community,” said Joey Dzingeleski, assistant at the center and graduate student studying adult, professional and higher education. “There’s all sorts of artistic, creative and clever queer students here who get to share the things they’re passionate about.”
The idea for the shop came from students and was adopted by Kara Tellaisha, director of LGBTQ+ Student Services. As the center began planning, it turned into a larger event.
“It started to grow as we got in contact with more people and it snowballed into a bigger event,” said Dzingeleski.
Rainbow flyers and pamphlets with the center’s information and upcoming events were available for students to take. The center also provided pins that students could have for free at their welcome table.
After four hours worth of positive queer spirits, the Rainbow Pop-Up closed up shop at 5 p.m., the day ending with students having showcased and sold their creations and learning about the LGBTQ+ Center.
Students looking for support can reach the center at 216-687-2324.