Iowa City is located just two hours from Iowa's capital city of Des Moines. Situated on either side of the Iowa River, Iowa City was the states first capital from 1842- 1857. After its move to Iowa City the University of Iowa was founded.

Iowa City is the sixth largest city in the state with a population of 62,220.

"It's not hard to see why so many young people are attracted to Iowa City," said student and President of the local Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender and Allied Union Claire Ziglowsky.

"The University draws such a unique and intriguing variety to Iowa," she said is why she choose Iowa City as her new home

The University of Iowa has numerous organizations to get involved in. The Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender and Allied Union is one of the UI most prominent groups. Since its birth more than 30 years ago, it has been providing students with a wide range of support. .

The organization supports students and others in the Iowa City community offering education of the larger heterosexual population about the need for gay and lesbian civil rights movement.

"We love allies, because we alone can't change the world," said Dustin Wagner GLBTAU member.

During the 1990s, the University has seen a variety of advancements, including the opening of a Sexuality Studies program in 1998, the first all-ages community Alternative Prom in 1999, and the first Rainbow graduation in 2000.

The organizations also provides social setting for students to interact with each other and learn more about the homosexual community in Iowa City.

"It's important for us to provide fun activities we can all do together. Its time to break down some walls," said Wagner.