LGBTQIA+ Students

Tips for Advising

The LGBTQIA+ students, faculty, and staff at the University of Minnesota is a growing population on all of our campuses. The growing rate of those who identify as LGBTQIA+ is directly linked to our society’s acknowledgment, understanding, and respect of this historically marginalized group and their identities and experiences. 

There is a long history of oppression, marginalization, and othering of members of the LGBTQIA+ community. LGBTQIA+ individuals are still being discriminated against both in public and private spaces and by their peers, coworkers, classmates, professors, friends, and the community.

Tips for Supporting/Advising this Population

• Model inclusive practices and share your pronouns (if comfortable). It is the student's decision to share (or not share) their pronouns.
• Respect the student’s identified name and/or pronouns (if they use pronouns).
• Pronouns are not used in some languages and among some communities or by some individuals so be mindful of that.
• Recognize that this is non-negotiable. The University is committed to providing equal access and opportunity to individuals of all gender identities and gender expressions.
• Educate yourself about queer identities within and outside of the typical acronym. Learn about what queer resources are available in the Twin Cities and be prepared to share more information with the student upon request. 
• Be cautious around using gendered language and making assumptions about a person based on their presentation. (Example: don’t assume someone has a girlfriend because you think they look like a man.)