Universities' Lgbt+ Student Inclusion: A Welcome Or A Charade?

LGBTQ+ students are increasingly visible on college campuses, and their presence is reflected in the diversity initiatives of many universities. While there is limited data on LGBTQ+ students in higher education, existing research shows that they face challenges that impact their college enrollment and experiences. To address these challenges, universities have implemented various support networks, such as student organizations, inclusive healthcare and counseling services, and dedicated LGBTQ+ centers. Additionally, some universities have expanded their definition of diversity to include LGBTQ+ students and made improvements to their campus climates to foster a robust support system. As a result, there is now a growing number of LGBTQ+-friendly colleges that offer academic, financial, and social resources to support and protect LGBTQ+ students.

LGBTQ+ students' experiences in K-12 education

In the US, there is limited data on LGBTQ+ students in higher education. However, existing research shows that the K-12 experiences of LGBTQ+ students are a factor in their college enrollment and experiences. For example, data shows that nearly 10% of LGBTQ+ students who experienced frequent verbal harassment did not plan to attend college after high school. This highlights the importance of creating safe and inclusive K-12 environments to support the educational journey of LGBTQ+ students.

One key aspect of improving the K-12 experience for LGBTQ+ students is the inclusion of LGBTQ+ topics in the curriculum. Excluding LGBTQ+ people and issues from the curriculum can deny young people a representation of themselves and their world, as LGBTQ+ individuals and issues are embedded in the American experience. Efforts to incorporate LGBTQ+ content in textbooks and specific LGBTQ+ studies courses, such as in California, present an opportunity to encourage understanding and acceptance of gender and sexuality among students.

Another important factor in creating a positive K-12 experience for LGBTQ+ students is addressing harassment and discrimination. Reports of harassment, especially towards transgender students, remain a concern. Creating safe and supportive environments that cultivate a sense of belonging, safety, and inclusion for LGBTQ+ students is crucial. This can be achieved through comprehensive policies, supportive educators, inclusive curricula, and student organisations such as Gay-Straight Alliances (GSAs).

Overall, while there have been improvements in LGBTQ+ inclusion in K-12 education, there is still work to be done to ensure that all students feel valued and respected, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

LGBTQ+ students' mental health

LGBTQ+ students face unique challenges in higher education. While there are over 250 LGBTQ+ centres across college campuses in the US, there is limited data about the experiences of LGBTQ+ students in higher education. However, existing research shows that LGBTQ+ students face challenges in their K-12 experience that impact their college enrolment and experiences. For example, data shows that nearly 10% of LGBTQ+ students who experienced frequent verbal harassment did not plan to attend college after high school.

Research has found that LGBTQ+ youth are more likely to experience mental health challenges and increased health complications arising from these challenges compared to their heterosexual peers. These challenges are not caused by their LGBTQ+ identity but are due to bias, discrimination, family rejection, and other stressors associated with how they are treated because of their sexual identity or gender identity/expression.

A 2022 survey by The Trevor Project of nearly 34,000 LGBTQ+ youth aged 13 to 24 found that 73% reported experiencing symptoms of anxiety and 58% reported symptoms of depression. 45% said they had seriously considered suicide, including more than half of transgender and non-binary youth and 1 in 3 cisgender youth. The survey also found that 60% of LGBTQ+ youth who wanted mental health care in the past year were unable to get it.

Another study found that LGBTQ+ youth are twice as likely to have thoughts about suicide and LGBTQ+ youth who are transgender or non-binary are more likely to attempt suicide. The same study found that transgender and non-binary youth who were able to change their name and/or gender marker on legal documents reported lower rates of attempting suicide.

To support the mental health of LGBTQ+ students, it is important to create safe and supportive environments, enact legislation to protect their safety, and build community awareness and capacity to address the stressors that LGBTQ+ youth may experience. Additionally, it is crucial to provide access to mental health care that respects their gender identity and sexual orientation.

Universities can promote LGBTQ+ mental health by creating inclusive policies, providing LGBTQ+ resource centres, offering gender-inclusive housing and healthcare options, and fostering a positive and inclusive campus climate.

LGBTQ+ students' housing

LGBTQ+ Students Housing

While there is limited data about LGBTQ+ students in higher education, existing research shows that they face challenges that affect their college enrollment and experiences. For example, data shows that nearly 10% of LGBTQ+ students who experienced frequent verbal harassment did not plan to attend college after high school.

LGBTQ+ Housing Options

LGBTQ+ students may not be openly accepted by all communities, and therefore, some universities are offering LGBTQ+ student housing to ensure their safety and well-being. This has been a topic of debate, with some arguing that exclusive LGBTQ+ housing is more divisive than inclusive. However, it is worth noting that similar exclusive housing options based on gender and race are commonplace.

• University of Southern California (USC): Offers "trans-friendly" student housing with gender-inclusive housing, allowing students to live with roommates regardless of gender identity or sex assigned at birth. They also have a 'Rainbow Floor', a special interest residential community for LGBTQ+ students, as well as single residences for transgender/gender queer students.
• University of Limerick (UL): Launched a rainbow student housing initiative for the LGBTQ+ community, which includes students from over 30 countries.
• University of Aberdeen: Offers dedicated blocks for alcohol-free accommodation.
• University of Nevada, Las Vegas: Has its own black and African American student housing floor.

The Benefits of LGBTQ+ Housing

LGBTQ+ students face numerous hurdles in society, and providing them with safe student housing with like-minded people or others from similar backgrounds can make them feel included. Feeling safe in one's accommodation is a basic expectation, and exclusive LGBTQ+ housing gives students a space to be themselves, free from judgment and bigotry. This is especially important for the transgender community, which faces some of the highest levels of violence and discrimination.

Recommendations for Universities

To create a more inclusive environment for LGBTQ+ students, universities can implement the following:

• Inclusive Policies: Include sexual orientation and gender identity in institutional policies to signal to prospective and current students that the campus leaders stand against discrimination.
• Gender-Inclusive Facilities: Ensure that non-discrimination policies include gender-inclusive facilities such as locker rooms, restrooms, and residence hall rooms.
• Support Services: Provide support services such as counseling and career advice specifically for LGBTQ+ students.
• Safe Spaces: Create safe spaces on campus, such as LGBTQ+ resource centers, where students can interact with peers, faculty, and staff who are openly LGBTQ+.
• Inclusive Curriculum: Integrate LGBTQ+ topics into the curriculum to increase inclusion and offer intellectual engagement with topics related to LGBTQ+ identities.
• Training and Education: Offer training and education for faculty, staff, and students on creating equitable learning environments and supporting LGBTQ+ students.
• Address Harassment: Take active measures to address harassment and discrimination, especially for transgender students, as this remains a significant problem in higher education.

By implementing these measures, universities can foster a more welcoming and inclusive environment for LGBTQ+ students, ensuring that they feel safe, supported, and able to thrive during their time on campus.

LGBTQ+ students' safety

To enhance the safety and well-being of LGBTQ+ students, several strategies can be implemented:

• Inclusive Enumerated Policies: These are policies that explicitly mention and protect LGBTQ+ students from bullying and harassment. Such policies provide clear guidelines for educators, signal a zero-tolerance stance on discrimination, and empower students to understand their rights.
• School Personnel Support and Training: Training school staff on LGBTQ+ issues is essential. When personnel are supportive, students feel safer and experience less victimisation. Training can include topics like LGBTQ+ terminology, creating safe spaces, and strategies to address bullying and harassment.
• Student-Led Clubs (Gender-Sexuality Alliances): These clubs promote social inclusion and a positive school climate for all students. Participation in these clubs is linked to higher grades, improved mental health, and a greater sense of belonging.
• Access to LGBTQ+ Resources and Inclusive Curricula: Providing LGBTQ+ inclusive curricula and resources ensures that students have access to information and support. This can include LGBTQ+ history, literature, and health education.

Universities can also foster safety for LGBTQ+ students by offering gender-inclusive housing, scholarships, and specialised student organisations. Additionally, universities should ensure that their non-discrimination policies cover admissions, employment, educational programs, athletics, and student health insurance.

By implementing these strategies, universities can create safer and more inclusive environments for LGBTQ+ students, promoting their overall well-being and academic success.

LGBTQ+ students' international experiences

The international experiences of LGBTQ+ students are shaped by various factors, including the cultural and legal contexts of their host countries, the inclusivity of their chosen universities, and their individual needs and preferences. While studying abroad can be enriching for all students, LGBTQ+ individuals may face unique challenges and considerations when navigating new environments. This discussion will explore the key aspects of LGBTQ+ students' international experiences, offering insights and guidance to ensure positive and successful outcomes.

Choosing a Study Abroad Destination

The first step for LGBTQ+ students considering international education is selecting an appropriate destination. It is crucial to research the legal protections, societal attitudes, and levels of discrimination related to LGBTQ+ rights in potential host countries. While some countries are known for their progressive attitudes and robust protections, such as South Africa, Belgium, England, France, Germany, Spain, Canada, the Netherlands, and Denmark, others may criminalize or sanction LGBTQ+ individuals. Understanding these variations is essential for ensuring safety and a positive experience.

Selecting an LGBTQ+-Friendly University

When choosing a university, LGBTQ+ students should look for institutions that actively foster inclusive environments. University websites are a good starting point to learn about LGBTQ+ support services, organizations, and policies. It is also beneficial to connect with current or former students to gain insights into their experiences and any student-led initiatives. Additionally, LGBTQ+ students can reach out to the university's admissions team or international office for more information. These steps help ensure that the chosen university is committed to creating a welcoming and supportive atmosphere for LGBTQ+ individuals.

Navigating Cultural Differences and Legal Considerations

LGBTQ+ international students often face a "double barrier" when trying to build a community on campus. They may feel isolated from both their international student peers and the LGBTQ+ student community due to cultural differences and varying levels of acceptance. It is essential to understand these challenges to provide effective support services. Cultural stigmas and legal considerations in the home country can also influence LGBTQ+ students' willingness to seek support or openly express their identities. University staff and advisers should be trained to create safe and non-judgmental spaces, use gender-neutral language, and incorporate LGBTQ+ issues into discussions to signal inclusivity.

Creating a Supportive Campus Environment

Universities play a pivotal role in fostering a supportive campus environment for LGBTQ+ students. This includes establishing LGBTQ+ resource centers, offering gender-neutral housing and health insurance options, and incorporating LGBTQ+ topics into the curriculum. Additionally, universities should encourage the formation of student-led LGBTQ+ organizations and societies, providing spaces for connection and community-building. These initiatives contribute to a sense of belonging and inclusion for LGBTQ+ students, enhancing their overall international experience.

Frequently asked questions