LGBTOUT: Queer CommunityThe LGBTOUT Drop-In Centre
Thanks to the generosity of University College, LGBTOUT has a space on campus where LGBTQ students and their allies can drop in and hang out for information, support and fun. The space is staffed by volunteers who do their best to provide a safe, supportive environment. Come in for a cup of coffee or tea, heat up your lunch in the microwave, lounge on the couch, and make friends with other LGBTQ students on campus. We are located in the archway of Sir Daniel Wilson Residence at University College (73 St. George Street), right under the clock tower across from Sidney Smith Hall. We try to keep the space open as much as possible, but the hours depend on the availability of volunteers.
Drop-In Centre Schedule (Spring 2007)
If you can spare an hour or two week, volunteering in the drop-in is a great way to meet people and make friends. We particularly need people to staff Women's, Trans, and People of Colour Hours. Email the Social Coordinator, social@lgbtout.com, to volunteer or to ask about the fall semester schedule.
Women's, Trans, and People of Colour Hours
Women's, Trans, and People of Colour Hours are not available yet.
The drop-in centre is a small space. Sometimes, this can give the impression that certain groups are 'dominating' the space, which can be intimidating. We know that it takes a lot of courage for many people to simply walk through the door, so we try to create circumstances that may lessen any sense of intimidation and make the space more welcoming to all.
We also recognize that different members of our LGBTQ communities have different needs, and that these needs cannot always be met in a mixed environment. Sexuality and sexual orientation issues can be experienced differently on the basis of gender, or because of religious or cultural beliefs. It can be empowering for LGBTQ people to have our own spaces where we can take respite from discrimination, talk with others who share our experiences, and group together to respond to harassment. That empowerment is also needed by marginalized people within our communities.
Thus, we offer women's hours, and people of colour hours, for those who would feel more comfortable in these environments.
We ask that all of our members respect these hours and avoid entering or remaining in the drop-in centre during hours set aside for others.
The Sussex Club House
LGBTOUT also has an office in the Sussex Club House, room 510, 21 Sussex Avenue. Members of LGBTOUT's executive will be in the office a few hours each week. If you're shy about coming to the drop-in centre, and just want to pick up some information or say hello, feel free to visit us there.
The Sussex Club House LGBTOUT office is not currently staffed for the 2007 Spring Semester. Email the Internal Coordinator, internal@lgbtout.com, if you'd like information about LGBTOUT, how to get involved, or simply what LGBTOUT's all about.