Frequently Asked Questions

How do I change my name and gender in Princeton’s systems?

Please see the Trans at Princeton resources, which has details on changing your name and gender, as well as provides information on other needs that trans and gender non-conforming students and employees may have.

As a prospective undergrad or graduate student, how can I learn what LGBTQA life is like at Princeton?

The GSRC staff can answer questions you may have about the University and surrounding communities, as well as connect you to a current student to have a conversation or email exchange. Email Center staff at gsrc@princeton.edu for more information

How do I connect with Princeton’s LGBTQA alumni group?

BTGALA (formerly the Fund for Reunion) is Princeton’s LGBTQ alumni group, and puts on gatherings and social events all around the country. Check out BTGALA’s website to learn more.

What do I do if I am questioning my sexuality or gender identity?

The GSRC is here to help! Email gsrc@princeton.edu to talk through what’s on your mind and the resources we have that might help you.

Does the GSRC support asexual students?

Absolutely! In fact, we have one of the most active asexual student groups in the country! Contact gsrc@princeton.edu to get in touch with the current leaders of the Princeton Aces.

What if I experience homophobia, biphobia, transphobia, or gender discrimination on campus?

Unfortunately, we live in a homophobic, biphobic, and transphobic world. However, no one  deserves to experience bias or discrimination, and the GSRC can help you get the support you need if you do experience bias on campus or beyond. If you experience bias due to your perceived or actual sexual orientation, romantic orientation, gender identity or expression, race or religion, there are resources to help you. For more information about who you can contact for support or to report an incident, please see this link. If you experience gender discrimination, please see this link.

How do I find out what’s going on at the GSRC?

Join our mailing list by heading here! We send out a weekly blast to our listserv on Tuesdays, letting you know what programs are coming up from the GSRC and its partners.

I don’t study LGBTQIA issues academically—do I still have a place in the GSRC?

Emphatically YES! There is no one way to be LGBTQIA and/or fem, and no requirement for how much queer theory you need to read before you can access the GSRC’s resources, programs and community. If you are not sure how you want to engage with the Center, we recommend you join our mailing list to receive our calendar of events weekly and/or reach out to the GSRC at gsrc@princeton.edu


Frequently Asked Questions about the new GSRC

Why is this happening?

Our aim is to be inclusive of every student on our campus, and we are evolving to better serve the student population.  As the knowledge on gender and sexuality continues to grow, it is our job to ensure we best represent that in the work that we are doing.  This new structure lets us move beyond the current structure’s limits.  We recognize the continuing complexity of those identities, and want to honor them in the work we do.

Did the LGBT Center and Women*s Center get eliminated?

No, this is an expansion project. All of the same programs and resources will be available, along with the ability to create more focused programs, discussion groups, educational opportunities, and more. We are evolving to be more intentional in naming who and how we serve the students and community at Princeton. There isn’t a reduction in staffing or other resources.

How is the GSRC different from Gender and Sexuality Studies?

GSS is housed in an academic department and the GSRC will be housed in student life.  Our focus is on the co-curricular learning experience, and student support outside of traditional academics.  This expansion does create an opportunity to collaborate more closely with GSS in programming and support.

 

Why now?

We have been evaluating these offices for the past few years (pre-COVID) and the direction we are moving is the ideal option. It isn’t because of budget cuts, but rather an opportunity to grow as both the Gender and Sexuality Resource Center and the Office of Diversity and Inclusion.

Will there still be spaces for Queer Students and Women + Fem students?

Yes, the Rainbow Lounge and the Women + Fem conference room. These spaces have been vital to creating community, belonging, and a sense of security. They have a history to our communities, and space given is important. They will continue to exist for those same reasons, and to continue shaping community in the ways that students need.

If you are so focused on individual identities why are they being lumped together? Aren’t you conflating experiences?

People’s identities don’t happen individually in a vacuum.  It is important to hold a space that recognizes the complexities of identity, and provide support for that.  This new structure gives us the ability to focus on an identity with a more expansive/inclusive lens.

How will the GSRC meet the needs of the future?

This expansion gives us (and future staff) more space and freedom to fully serve students as times change, evolve, and grow. It gives us the opportunity to be as inclusive as possible, while also serving our specific set of students. This evolution both brings us up to date with current understandings of gender and sexuality, it gives us the freedom to address issues with a more complex lens of understanding.

What about the LGBT Peer Educators?

With the new Assistant Director position focusing primarily on education, the Peer Eds are going to have extra support, and an expanded ability to educate on a wider range of topics!

What about cis gay men? Do they belong in this space?

Yes.  The programming and other services we offer are always student driven.  Everyone has experiences with gender and sexuality, and this is a space for students (and community) to explore and connect with their identities.