April is national Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender Awareness month, and NIU has a variety of events planned.

The LGBT Resource Center and PRISM have put together a diverse selection of events ranging from the Second Annual ALLY Awards Reception to the National Day of Silence.

“What I love about the calendar is that there is a lot of variety,” said Margie Cook, director of the resource center. “There is everything from more serious discussions to pretty light and fun events.”

For those interested in deep discussion, the resource center will host several lectures, including “Taboo Topics Discussion Series: Relationship Violence in the LGBT Community” on April 13 and “‘Officer Friendly’ and ‘Tough Cops:’ Gay and Lesbian Police Officers.” Lighthearted events include the Gay Jam, a drag and variety show, on April 29 and a week-long coloring workshop starting May 1.

Another highlight of this year’s LGBT schedule is a May 2 performance by acclaimed poet Alix Olson, who is returning to NIU after her last performance four years ago.

“[Olson] is just high energy, very talented, phenomenal performer and a lot of her poetry focuses on social justice issues, Cook said. “She really tries to make people think about things, and she is also just a fabulous poet.”

Even though this month’s events are centered around LGBT culture, people of every orientation are encouraged to enjoy the events planned.

“Our programs are open to anyone, you don’t have to be LGBT to come to our events,” Cook said. “We welcome everybody, and we often do get a very mixed crowd.”

A full calendar of the month’s events can be found online at www.niu.edu/lgbt.