LGBTQ+ Initiatives welcomes volunteers from all class years and fields of study. Volunteers fill a variety of roles in the office, including working regular weekly shifts and/or assisting on an as-needed basis with special projects and events. To volunteer, fill out our volunteer form here.
The affirmation of our LGBTQ+ and Ally community is the foundation for creating a socially just and inclusive environment at UC Merced and in society as a whole. We believe that through the education the LGBTQ+ and Ally students receive, both inside and outside of the classroom, they will succeed in their academic endeavors and go on to thrive in their personal and professional lives.
Vision
The vision of LGBTQ+ Initiatives, within the Office of Student Life, is to affirm the lived experiences of the LGBTQ+ and Ally community and create a socially just and equitable world.
Purpose
The purpose of LGBTQ+ Initiatives, within the Office of Student Life, is to affirm the unique lives, identities and intersectionalities of our Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans*, Two-Spirit, Queer, Questioning, Asexual, Intersex, Pansexual, Omnisexual, same gender loving people and ally students, faculty and staff. We encourage a supportive and inclusive environment by providing education, outreach, and advocacy opportunities that assist our LGBTQ+ and ally students, faculty and staff to achieve personal and academic excellence.
Values
We are dedicated to
Integrity – the professional accountability to and respect for individuals and groups whom we encounter.
Awareness – creating opportunities for self-awareness and broad societal awareness in a safe environment.
Community – creating and fostering healthy, inclusive community growth through developing partnerships and the sharing of time, space and resources.
Advocacy – the pursuit of change to advance the respect, dignity and human rights for all individuals.
Social Justice – utilizing a social justice framework to guide all our efforts, honoring intersectional identities and inclusive collaborations to create community.
Leadership – the preparation and development of our future leaders.
Celebration – celebrating the joys, successes and complexities of all individuals.
For more information, please contact lgbtq@ucmerced.edu
