October 17, 2025 | Story by Danny Silva (MM '26), photo by Michigan Photography
Everyone has something to learn. Spectrum Center offers educational opportunities that meet you wherever you are in your learning journey and understanding of LGBTQIA2S+ communities.
Sought by students, faculty, and staff of all sexualities and genders across U-M, our relevant, research-backed, and accessible offerings have made the center a trusted partner in creating more inclusive campus spaces. One or more might be right for you or your group—here’s what to know:
1. Take our web course wherever you are
A great entry-level opportunity we offer is the Introduction to LGBTQIA2S+ Communities and Identities web course, providing foundational knowledge on your own schedule.
This course cuts through the noise with clear explanations of terms and concepts related to gender, sexuality, and attractionality. You'll learn to distinguish between birth-assigned sex and gender, understand the differences between gender identity and expression, clarify sexuality versus sexual orientation, and identify various forms of oppression affecting LGBTQIA2S+ communities. It's the solid foundation you need for deeper engagement with these topics and communities.
2. Workshops that build real skills
Those seeking something beyond the introductory course can also take advantage of our workshops. We offer dedicated sessions for these a few times per semester, and groups can also request them for customized training.
- Pronouns 101 packs a lot into two hours. You’ll learn the basics of pronouns and their usage, but more importantly, you’ll practice using different pronoun sets in real conversations. The workshop also equips you with bystander intervention skills, so you’re ready to create inclusive moments beyond the workshop room. It’s hands-on, practical, and a unique learning experience that applies to everyone you interact with.
- Towards Solidarity: Allyship in Actions takes you deeper with a 6-hour intensive that challenges you to rethink what allyship really means. This isn’t about surface-level support; it’s about centering liberation and showing up actively for LGBTQIA2S+ communities. Expect to leave with a broadened perspective on allyship as well as concrete strategies for meaningful engagement.
3. Consultations to support your strategic initiatives
Sometimes you may need more than a workshop or be seeking guidance for a specific project or challenge. That’s where capacity building consultations come in.
Led by Spectrum Center’s director and associate director, these sessions help develop inclusive practices, processes, and policies that serve all Wolverines. Some popular consultation topics include demographic collection on gender, sex, and sexuality; creating gender-inclusive learning spaces; developing gender-inclusive policies; and designing inclusive facilities, such as restrooms and locker rooms. Whatever your goal, they’ll work with you to make it happen and incorporate these skills into your everyday life.
4. Events that pull it all together
Even our events equip you with essential knowledge and real-life skills while we have fun and build community.
Year-round, we host lunch and learns for open dialogue on timely topics, plus keynote speakers during LGBT History Month, Trans Awareness Month, and Pride Month who challenge and inspire. Hands-on programming meets practical needs: chef demonstrations make cooking approachable, name change sessions clarify legal steps for affirming identity, and our Trans and Nonbinary Passport Clinic demystifies options for authentic travel.
Find more opportunities
Wherever you are on your educational journey, our offerings support your growth—and together, we’re building a more inclusive U-M community for all.
Read more