Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, & Transgender Resource Center

1. Do I have to be gay to be involved or to come into the LGBTRC?

   Absolutely not. Everyone is welcome to take part in our events and come into the Resource Center. We welcome allies (and need you too!)

2. Does EMU protect sexual orientation and gender identity/expression in its non-discrimination policy?

   Yes. In March of 2007 the board of regents approved the addition of gender identiy and expression into the non-discrimination policy. In addition, gender identity language has been added to the preamble of the bylaws of the EMU Board of Regents, the EMU Civil Rights policy and the EMU Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action policy. This is the current wording of the policy:

   EasternMichiganUniversity shall not discriminate against any person because of race, color, religion, creed, sex, age, national origin, ancestry, marital status, vetercollapsableContent status or physical or mental disability as provided for and to the extent required by state and federal statutes. Further, the University shall not discriminate against any person because of sexual orientation, gender identity or expression. The University shall work for the elimination of improper discrimination in the areas listed above (1) in organizations recognized by the University, and (2) from non-university sources where students and employees of the University are involved.

   The sexual orientation, gender identity and expression provisions of this policy shall not prohibit the University from maintaining relationships with agencies of the federal government. Further, except where approved by separate action of the Board of Regents the provisions of this policy shall not apply to employment benefits, family housing, financial aid packages and student residency status.

3. Does EMU Housing accommodate transgender people?

   Yes. Eastern Michigan University is committed to providing safe housing options for all students. In order to provide accommodations related to a student's gender identity/expression, University Housing should be notified if a student requires specific accommodations in regard to their gender identity/expression. A student is encouraged to notify University Housing of his or her needs on the Residence Hall Assignment RecollapsableTitlet Form or via email to housing@emich.edu. While recollapsableTitleted accommodations can not be guaranteed, University Housing will reasonably attempt to accommodate students of all gender identities and expressions.
   Phone: 734.487.1300
   Email: housing@emich.edu

4. How and where can I report a hate crime or bias incident?

   Immediately call the Eastern Michigan Police@ 734.487.1222. Please contact the LGBT Resource Center also.

5. How can I receive LBC credit?

   There are quite a few ways. You can do volunteer service hours or attend events. Call us to find out what you can do with your LGBTRC! 734.487.1075

6. How can I volunteer with the LGBTRC?

   Please visit us to see what we have going on. Also if you are not already on our list serves, please ask us to add you in order to here about our events and volunteer opportunities.

7. What is an Ally?

   An ally is someone who supports the LGBT community. They usually identify as heterosexual and are a freind to those that identify as LGBT. There are also allies within the LGBT community, for example a lesbian can be supportive to a trangender individual.

8. What is the difference between the terms transgender, transvestite, and transexual?

   The term "transgender" is often used as an umbrella term for a variety of gender identities. The transgender Umbrella includes transexual, which is a person who feels that he or she was born in the wrong body, and may transition to the sex that they feel they are by using hormonal and sometimes surgical therapies. It is important to mention that some transexual people do not choose to transition.

   The transgender Umbrella may also include concepts and identities such as intersex, third-gender, gender bender, androgynous, drag, non identified, other, and etc. For more information about transgender related terms, concepts, issues, and people, please feel free to contact or visit the LGBTRC.

9. Who can I talk to about coming out or being out?

   The LGBTRC co-sponsors a Coming Out/Being Out support group with Counseling Services. The group meets every Wednesday @ 5:00 p.m. at the EMU Student Center, room 347. Counseling Services has a very LGBT supportive staff. If you wish to make an individual appointment feel to call 734.487.1118. For more information on Counseling Services visit their website.