Because SOU works to promote diversity among the student body, it is important for us to accommodate students with many different needs and backgrounds. Recognizing the need for equal opportunities and safe spaces for all, we demand more inclusive housing options on campus. Students should have access to rooming options appropriate to their needs. We should have the option of rooming with whomever we choose, regardless of gender.

Unfortunately, current housing practices often marginalize queer and trans students who are uncomfortable rooming with someone of the same assigned sex/gender. Same-sex only room assignments are based on old-fashioned, heterosexist beliefs that rooming with someone of another sex would create sexual tension. Today, many students are friends with people of different sexes or feel more sexual tension with members of their same sex, and should be able to room with people of any sex.

Most importantly, many students feel uncomfortable and even unsafe in traditional housing environments. Queer students have no way of knowing whether their roommate will be supportive, and trans students often have to take a single room they may not be able to afford.

For these reasons, we are working to institute gender-inclusive housing spaces available to any student who asks for the option, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. This will provide a safe living space for people who have been marginalized by the housing experience.

For more information, go to the National Student Genderblind Campaign at http://www.genderblind.org/ , or send me a message and I will try to answer you questions.


***Important***
If you support this idea or have any input, please take our short survey at http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=n_2fXm_2bWIqmGCLSbYbh_2f3ioA_3d_3d to help us gauge student support.

Thanks for your time and support!
Contact Info
Office:
SOU Queer Resource Center (downstairs in the SU)
Location:
Ashland, OR