Several organizations teamed up on Friday, Feb. 7 to host the annual Galentine’s Day event for students.
The event took place in the Smith Student Center ballroom from 7:30-9:30 p.m.
Multiple organizations collaborated to host this event including the Feminist Majority Leadership Alliance, the Macoskey Center, Rock the Weekend, Rock Out, Dean of Students, K Grill 2 Go, the Wellness Peers, the ASL Club, Alpha Sigma Tau sorority and the Women’s Center.
Students had the opportunity to participate in activities such as henna tattoos and making lip scrubs. Food such as cookies and boba tea from local business K Grill to Go was provided.
“It’s a place for people to chill out and not have to worry about life. It’s a space where people can have fun and hang out with friends and just bring some good vibes,” Women’s Center Graduate Assistant Kayla Witzke said. “Right now I feel like a lot of people need that.”
The Women’s Center intended for the event to foster connection between people and organizations, and create an inclusive space to celebrate the holiday.
“It represents both community and collaboration across campus. We like to work with everybody. We want everyone to get to know us and show how we can support other people, not necessarily just women.” Women’s Center Assistant Director Dominic Cristini said.
Galentine’s Day has been celebrated at SRU since 2018.
The history of the holiday itself dates back to an episode of the television show “Parks and Recreation.” Since then, it has become a cultural phenomenon for those who want to celebrate Valentine’s Day with platonic friends.
Contrary to its name, Galentine’s Day at SRU is open to anyone to attend, regardless of their identity. “Gal is a gender-neutral term,” Cristini said. “And if you decide to come, wear pink!”
