Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, & Transgender Resource Center

1. Do I have to be LGBT identified 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!) There are plenty of ways to get involved through programming, volunteering, work study and campus LGBTQ initiatives. 

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

    

   EMU also offers LGBTQA themed housing: 

   SPECTRUM Community

   8th Floor Hoyt Hall

   This community is for students who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning, or any other sexual orientation or gender identity/expression. Allies and friends are also invited to live in this community. Students will work to create a supportive and inclusive community that encourages academic and personal growth. Residents can expect programming that explores gender and sexual identities and will be tied into campus organizations like the LGBT Resource Center.

   Contact Mary Larkin, Program Coordinator of the LGBT Resource Center, if you need any assistance in navigating housing needs. 

   mlarkin@emich.edu

   734-487-1075

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. 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.

6. What does Transgender mean?

   Great question! The term "transgender" is often used as an umbrella term for a variety of gender identities. 

   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.

7. 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.