LGBTQ Campus Support and Resources
College can be challenging for all students, therefore finding ways to make connections with others who identify similarly can make a big difference. The American College Health Association estimate that at least 10% of college students identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual, trans, asexual, pansexual, or questioning. Although LGBTQ PRIDE is becoming more prevalent, the LGBTQ community often face additional pressures or concerns. UM, and its surrounding community offer resources and information to both help LGBTQ students navigate the college environment and make connections in a group setting.
The first place Cane LGBTQ+ students should check-in is the Student Affairs LGBTQ Center, at 1306 Stanford Dr. in the Whitten University Center, room 2300K for a place to hang out, feel connected, or get involved. You can check out their calendar or visit Facebook, Instagram, & Twitter.
If a virtual connection is more feasible; check out UM’s LGBTQ Virtual Resources where you can find counseling, individually or in a group setting, Pridelines offer peer-led support groups and social programs (Rainbow Circle, Beyond the Binary, and Friday Socials). One can also look into the YES Institute. Check their calendar for their various events.
IBIS Intersections is a monthly program designed to focus on different topics and issues for LGBTQIA+ and their allies to encourage awareness, foster discussion, and build knowledge. IBIS also has a Mentorship Program.
Check out the Pride Press, a weekly newsletter where you will find information on all sorts of things LGBTQ+ like awards, recognitions, or special pride stories you would like to share, campus events, Greater Q-mmunity News, and scholarships and other opportunities.
As a member of the Hurricanes family students can reach out and find numerous resources for support, networking, and inclusion at any of the following places on campus:
- UM Counseling Center
- Student Health Services
- Toppel Career Center
- Gender-inclusive Housing
- Gender-neutral and inclusive restrooms – Coral Gables and RSMAS campuses. If you are seeking a Refuge Restroom, this can help.
- LGBTQ Faculty-Staff Network – that support students as well as staff
- IBIS Ally Network – I Believe in Solidarity
- Local and National Resources.
UM also celebrates the achievements and contributions of graduating members of their LGBTQ community with Lavender Graduation held in addition to the traditional commencement services. Should you feel harassed or discriminated against based on your gender identity or sexual orientation, The Dean of Students Office can assist with a range of support services and protective measures. Students can remain anonymous. Contact Maria Sevilla or Dean Nikki Abramson at 305-284-5353.
Students that identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning, or queer should not only feel secure that they have a safe environment where they can thrive as a student, but they should also feel confident that there is a community that will welcome them to a place they can make connections. UM works hard to be sure that happens for all its students by promoting advocacy and education as well as creating opportunities for socialization and support.
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