Stand with Trans organization hosts virtual college fair for LGBTQ students
Farmington Hills-based nonprofit Stand with Trans works to provide transgender youth with the tools they need to be empowered, supported and validated as they transition to their authentic selves.
As part of this mission, the organization is connecting LGBTQ teens with colleges and universities in the Great Lakes region through a virtual college education fair.
Admissions repre- sentatives will be available to answer questions about scholarships, financial aid, gender inclusive housing and restroom policies, support services, pronouns and chosen names on school IDs, student groups for LGBTQ students, and more.
“It is critical that LGBTQ+ youth have access to safe and welcoming spaces as they explore the college experience. From housing to bathrooms to classrooms, colleges and universities are doing more to create environments and access to LGBTQ+ affirming opportunities,” said Stand with Trans Executive Director Roz Gould Keith.
Keith started Stand with Trans six years ago – inspired by her transgender son Hunter.
“I have seen first-hand what happens when a trans teen is given support, understanding and acceptance. And, I’ve seen the devastation when they are not supported,” she said.
“When (Hunter) first came out, I didn’t know anything about it. There were no resources or therapists that were gender specialists. I had no one to talk to. … We started recognizing that there were so many others out there with a lack of support and a lack of acceptance.”
The virtual college fair takes place from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday, April 29. The event is free to attend, but pre-registration is required at standwithtrans.org/college-education-fair.