UH Commission on Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer+ (LGBTQ+) Equality
Rights and Resources
Knowing your rights as a lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or intersex person on campus and being aware of available resources can help you develop, grow and protect yourself.
Discrimination
The university is committed to prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, gender, age, religion, color, national origin, ancestry, disability, marital status, arrest and court record, sexual orientation and veteran status.
The Board of Regents’ policy covers
- Admission
- Access
- Participation
- Treatment
- Employment in all university programs and activities
In the event of harassment or discrimination, students should contact the campus dean or vice chancellor of students and faculty and staff should contact their campus Equal Employment Opportunity Officer or union representative.
Coming Out
Often during college years students reflect on their identity and sexuality. For some, this process may result in the discovery that they are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or intersex. Some individuals embark on the process of “coming out” to friends, colleagues, and family.
For most people the process of “coming out” is a challenging experience. We are exposed daily to the negative reactions, stereotypes, and heterosexist bias of the society we in which we live, and it is not unusual to have feelings of fear, isolation, guilt, and self-rejection.
However, coming to terms with your sexual orientation can also be a positive experience; you may find that your anxiety is replaced by relief, self-acceptance and a sense of liberation. Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and intersex people have the same rights as others to learn, grow and discover themselves. All members of the UH community are invited to learn about sexuality and gender issues.
Safe Zone
The former Task Force on Sexual Orientation initiated a Safe Zone program aimed at keeping the university system a comfortable place for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex population. A Safe Zone symbol identifies a person (student, teacher, staff, administrator) you can trust: someone who will be understanding, supportive and helpful.
Workplace Concerns
The commission advocates for representation of the interests of LGBTQ+ people on hiring committees, and continues to strive for nondiscrimination and safe working environments for all employees.
Formalization/Operations
The commission continues to be in communication with the Office of the President and makes recommendations on issues relating to LGBTQ+ affairs.
Policy and Best Practices
The commission has made the recommendation to add “gender identity and expression” to our UH policy of non-discrimination and continues to advocate for the rights of transgender individuals.
