Whether you're looking to deepen your understanding of LGBTQ+ Studies or enhance your skills as an aspiring ally, there are educational opportunities are designed to expand your knowledge and foster inclusive communities. From workshops and lectures to professional development, there is a wide range of resources to help you explore diverse perspectives and support LGBTQIA+ identities. Join us on a journey of learning, growth, and allyship as we work together to create more inclusive spaces for everyone.
Faculty and students in the Department of Women’s and Gender Studies examine the meaning and impact of gender and sexuality across all aspects of society including politics, culture, media, transnationalism, religion, violence, social movements, public & community health, technology, and family life. Our department was the first in the state of Oklahoma to offer an undergraduate major in the discipline, and we currently offer the only WGS graduate certificate and LGBTQ Studies minor in the state.
Through coursework, service learning, and internships, our students learn critical thinking, writing, public speaking, organization, conflict resolution, and project design. The interdisciplinary and intersectional perspectives students gain in the Department of Women's and Gender Studies enable them to achieve their highest potential in their chosen field and as citizens of diverse local and global communities. Women's and Gender Studies majors and minors have found work in for-profit and not-for-profit organizations, social help agencies, human rights advocacy, and victim's advocacy. Others have pursued graduate study in law, medicine, human relations, education, business, information science, communications, fine arts, and public health.
The LGBTQ Studies Minor provides students with an intersectional analysis of how LGBTQ identities and community have been (and continue to be) shaped historically, socially, philosophically, culturally, medically, and scientifically. It creates a space for critical inquiry around how sexual and gender minorities are affected by society's normative perceptions and practices, while also exploring ways various LGBTQ communities and individuals have responded.
Please note that WGS majors cannot also receive a minor in LGBTQ studies because the two degrees are offered through the same department.
Office of Advocacy & Education offers a variety of training opportunities for campus community members to learn more about gender-based violence prevention, substance misuse prevention, sexual health education, and other general health topics that are common among college students.
An LGBTQIA+ Aspiring Ally is an individual with the awareness, knowledge, and skills to confront injustice and advocate for equality, while supporting all persons, regardless of perceived or actual sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression, who are experiencing discrimination.
Aspiring Allies Training is designed as a first-step training to help individuals learn more about marginalized communities and ways to support them. The training focus on understanding key elements of identity development within different communities. Participants will reflect on the understandings of self and others, how to create positive community impact, and how to create change through allyship.
We offer different styles of this presentation for various audiences, including: Faculty, Greek Life, incoming K-12 professionals, and incoming medical professionals.
Duration: 3 Hours
Facilitators: OAE Staff
ASPIRING ALLIES 2.0
This is the next-step training with Aspiring Ally that paves the way for individuals to continue their path of allyship. Building upon the previous knowledge base, participants will learn more about gender identity development. Utilizing empathy-based learning activities/opportunities, participants will gain the confidence and skills needed to step in circumstances of discrimination. As well as how to provide affirming, culturally competent services to people who are transgender and gender non-conforming.
Duration: 3 Hours (90 minute option available)
Facilitators: OAE Staff
Y'ALL MEANS ALL: DYNAMICS OF INCLUSION
Participants will be able to recognize that using inclusive language is beneficial to themselves and their communities. Skill-building will include identifying commonly used words/phrases that are non-inclusive and articulating why they are problematic. By the end, participants will be equipped with the tools to be able to intervene in circumstances of exclusion.
Duration: 1 Hour
Facilitators: OAE Staff
