OUTSPOKEN
MISSION:Outspoken is a student group devoted to campus peer education, outreach, and advocacy regarding issues of sexual orientation and gender identity and expression. Our efforts aim to create a campus community that understands, welcomes, and supports the identity and experience of every student.
Outspoken is a group of undergraduate and graduate students who have completed an intensive training on issues that are current and necessary to the understanding of the concerns in the LGBT community. Peer Educator training consists of: a day-long training in April, summer a one week training in mid-August, a weekend Retreat in September, monthly continuing education sessions throughout the fall and spring semester and a one day Retreat in January. After this training, Outspoken members help to facilitate the various programs described below on a volunteer basis, work together to strengthen Outspoken, and work toward the achievement of its mission.
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PROGRAMS
Outspoken members facilitate a number of programs for Residence Halls and other offices on campus. We already have some programs planned and ready to go at any time that you need one, and we can always work with you if there is a specific issue that you wish to address or topic you feel would be useful to learn about.
Guess the Straight Person
Looking for an interactive, stereotype-breaking activity? For this exercise, audience members pose questions to a panel, trying to determine the sexual orientation or gender identity of panel members. Based on how the panel answers the questions while relying on assumptions and stereotypes, the audience members try to identify the heterosexual panel members. What follows is a riveting discussion that destroys stereotypes and challenges assumptions.
Express Yourself
Posted on one side of the room is a sign that says "Agree," and on the opposite side of the room is a sign that reads "Disagree." Statements are read regarding LGBT issues, and participants go to the side of the room that coincides with their answer. A discussion follows each statement, allowing people to express why they agree or disagree. Questions can be tailored to any group's needs. Statements may include: "I sometimes feel uncomfortable around people of a different sexual orientation than me" or "Sexual orientation is a choice."
Queer Jeopardy: Gay Politics in the US
An interactive and informative game show format covering the current status of political, legal, and social issues related to sexual orientation and gender identity in the United States. Some issues covered include same-sex marriage, domestic partner benefits, the military, adoption, hate crimes, transgender issues, and the history of the gay rights movement. Time is allotted for questions and discussion on all the issues covered.
Safe Zone
This is a campus wide program designed to visibly identify students, staff, and faculty peers who support the LGBT population, understand some of the issues facing LGBT individuals, and are aware of the various LGBT resources. The three hour training session provides a foundation of knowledge needed to be an effective ally to LGBT students and those questioning their sexuality. Campus wide trainings are offered once every semester, but training sessions can be arranged for other groups if requested. For more information about Safe Zone trainings and a listing of Safe Zone participants, check out our Safe Zone page.
Also, be on the lookout for Safe Zone II workshops--entire workshops designed around various LGBT topics including transgender issues, mental and physical health, religion and spirituality, bisexuality, race/class/ethnicity/gender diversity, and how to be an ally.
Request Outspoken Programs here.
View a list of requestable programs here.
If you have questions or concerns please contact the Outspoken Peer Education Program Coordinator by e-mail.