Meg Williamson, conservation biology junior, was a member of Spectrum Alliance before it disbanded and plans to reintroduce the organization to the University in the spring. Williamson said Spectrum Alliance, which promotes student equality regardless of sexual orientation, ceased activity on campus after internal problems surfaced within the organization. Williamson and Sarah Cancienne, studio art junior, are seeking three additional students to serve as board members and a faculty adviser in order to become an official student organization again. Williamson said there are few prospects for the adviser position and few students interested in membership. “I think that the community in general needs a good voice on the campus,” Williamson said. “Spectrum Alliance, when it was around, had such a crucial role on campus. We’re just trying to bring about more awareness and educate the Baton Rouge community.” Williamson said she wants Spectrum Alliance to focus on activism rather than the social aspect of a student organization. “It’s supposed to be just an organization for activism,” she said. “Now that [Gays, Bisexuals, Lesbians and Supporters United] has taken over the social issues, I think it will be better.” Cancienne said she is confident Williamson will focus the organization’s goals on activism. “I was interested because I really respect Meg a lot, and I think she has a focused idea of how Spectrum needs to be,” Cancienne said. “I think she will be a capable leader of the organization. I think it’s important that we keep LSU a welcoming community and that everybody feels like they have a place at LSU.” Williamson said she and Cancienne plan to set Spectrum Alliance’s agenda and organize events once they confirm their board members and adviser. Williamson said the organization’s membership will not be restricted. “Spectrum has always been open to straight members and supporters, but some people said they didn’t feel like they were welcome because of the social issues, but we’re trying to change that,” she said.
—–Contact Angelle Barbazon at [email protected]