Working Groups Reports: LGBT Issues

Please Note: These reports were produced by working group teams participating in the MizzouDiversity Summit. There may be errors in some of the data provided and the viewpoints presented reflect the beliefs and opinions of the working group teams but do not necessarily represent the official positions of the Chancellor's Diversity Initiative or the University of Missouri.

Praiseworthy Aspects of Mizzou Related to LGBT Issues

LGBT Resources are visibly provided
- LGBT Resource Center
  - Advocacy of LGBT awareness
  - Safe space program
Student organizations
- Triangle Coalition
  - Creation of realistic image of LGBT community
  - Social and educational events
- Allies in Action
  - Cooperation between straight and LGBT communities

Concerns at Mizzou

Harassment from student population
Acknowledgment of identity intersections
Dominant heterosexist attitude present in student population and Greek community
Fears or perceived obstacles in seeking support
Few locations easily identifiable as LGBT-friendly

Recommendations for Improvement

Engage students and residents in discussion of LGBT issues.
Confront heterosexist assumptions & language in the classroom and in residence halls.
Continue to create and identify “safe spaces” for dialogue & interaction.