By Dawn Wolfe Gutterman
EAST LANSING – From April 6-8, nationally-noted transgender educator Samuel Lurie will offer workshops to students and staff at Michigan State University.
"Giving people awareness and skills is crucial for any kind of social or cultural change," said Lurie, explaining why the trainings are important.
Two of the workshops are for students, faculty and staff and one is for health care providers, while the final workshop on April 8 is entitled, "Student Leader and Ally Activation."
"Right now there are over 50 colleges and universities that have included gender identity and expression in their non-discrimination policies," said Lurie. "There's a big trend in nondiscrimination policies, and as a result of that policy shift people are hungry for information that helps them meet that policy."
According to an MSU release about the events, Lurie, "has delivered trainings to well over 9,000 individuals across the country in health care and university settings that have included Tufts, Brown, Yale, Wesleyan, U. of New England, SUNY-Albany, U. of Vermont, Simmons College, City University of New York, Dartmouth, Landmark College and two New England College Health Association Annual Meetings."
The following workshops will be held:
Thursday, April 6, 1:30-5 p.m. – Transgender Issues on Campus: A program for graduate and undergraduate students, staff and faculty interested in improving classroom and campus climate for transgender students, and implementing trans-inclusive policies in higher education settings.
Friday, April 7, 8-9:30 a.m. – Health Care Provision and LBGT Student Panel: A workshop for health care providers (both mental and physical health) and those looking into or interested in the health care profession.
Friday, April 7, 1:30 – 5 p.m. – Transgender Issues on Campus: (Repeat of the April 6 workshop)
Saturday, April 8, Noon-3 p.m. – Student Leader and Ally Activation: A workshop for current and potential student leaders.
Workshop space is limited and advance registration is required. To register, contact the Office of LGBT Concerns at [email protected] or 517-353-9520.
