What is the Gender & Sexuality Spectrum?
The Gender & Sexuality Spectrum is an initiative of the University of Maryland Eastern Shore’s Office of Institutional Equity and Compliance. The committee is interdepartmental and exists with the mission of supporting and empowering LGBTQ+ students and employees at UMES through education, outreach, and advocacy.
Our Objectives:
- Provide support and resources to LGBTQ+ students and employees
- Promote visibility, awareness, and community
- Provide education about LGBTQ+ identities
- Advocate for the needs and concerns of LGBTQ+ students and employees
“Maybe we can stop trying so hard to understand the gorgeous mystery of sexuality. Instead, we can just listen to ourselves and each other with curiosity and love, and without fear. We can just let people be who they are and we can believe that the freer each person is, the better we all are.”
GLENNON DOYLE
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there gender-inclusive housing at UMES?
Currently, there are no specific policies or housing options to meet the specified need; however, Residence Life is in the position to accommodate individualized requests. Inclusive housing will be on the forefront of objectives once the new housing director arrives.
What if I want to change my name/gender marker?
Students, faculty, and staff who are in need of assistance with changing their legal name, preferred name, and/or gender marker should contact the Office of Institutional Equity and Compliance at 410-651-6135 or equity@umes.edu.
Are there gender-inclusive restrooms at UMES?
We are in the beginning stages of providing a map of gender-inclusive restrooms on campus. Currently, there are a number of single stall restrooms throughout the campus that we plan to designate as gender-neutral.
What LGBTQ-inclusive training do resident assistant (RA) staff receive?
RAs receive Safe Zone training from the Office of Institutional Equity and Compliance. The Safe Zone curriculum educates participants on LGBTQ+ identities, inclusive language, examining privilege, differences between gender and sex, and much more. The training is interactive and intended to guide individuals through self-exploration and a deeper understanding of LGBTQ+ identity and issues in order to commit themselves to creating LGBTQ-inclusive environments.
I have a question but it’s not listed here. Where can I get answers?
Feel free to submit questions in any of the following ways:
- In person (Early Childhood Research Center, Suite 1129 anytime between 8am-5pm, M-F)
- Call us at 410-651-6135 (anytime between 8am-5pm, M-F)
- Send us an email at equity@umes.edu
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