During LGBT History Month, Michigan State University is highlighting the Gender and Sexuality Campus Center and its assistant director, Haley Strassburger. Strassburger is new to both MSU and the state of Michigan.
Strassburger’s background is primarily in LGBTQIA+ student support, and they hold a master’s degree in gender studies. They enjoy teaching and supporting students, and their work emphasizes inclusivity, accessibility and helping students find the resources they need.
Marina Roeder, communications intern, talked to Strassburger about the importance of LGBT History.
Roeder: Why is LGBT History Month important?
Strassburger: The reason the month is so important is because so much LGBT history has been erased. Much of what we discuss in our history is uncomfortable. In many ways, a lot of the history that we have has faded because people’s stories weren’t heard.
Roeder: Why is LGBT History Month important on MSU’s campus?
Strassburger: It is important to tell students about the past because we learn from the past. It’s important to remind students that they are creating their own history. For marginalized students, envisioning a future can be incredibly challenging. It is hard to imagine tomorrow, much less the rest of your life.
Roeder: Tell us about your role in the Gender and Sexuality Campus Center.
Strassburger: As assistant director, I serve as a supervisor for our fantastic coordinators and help facilitate large-scale programming. I also support our racial justice educator, a student employee who develops intersectional and inclusive programming that supports the queer community and allies across all spaces on campus.
Roeder: What events is the Gender and Sexuality Campus Center planning this month?
Strassburger: We have lots of events planned, including QTBIPOC celebration week. It is a celebration week that started here at MSU, taking place from Oct. 13 to 17. QTBIPOC celebration week celebrates queer, transgender, Black, Indigenous and people of color’s voices and gives them a space to share their experiences. We also offer programming throughout the year.
On Nov. 20, the Gender and Sexuality Campus Center will honor Transgender Day of Remembrance, recognizing trans people who have lost their lives by violence in the past year. Events like these not only pay tribute to people’s lives but also give us dignity as we look ahead. In the spring, we host Pride Prom, the Lavender Celebration and the Queering Racial Justice Summit, a one-day event that brings together scholars and community members.
On Oct. 29, we will also host the Queer Reflections on Horror event, in conjunction with Disability Pride Month, where queer authors will discuss their experiences and their connection to the media.
Roeder: What other ways does the center support students on campus?
Strassburger: We run the Unconditional Love Fund, where any student can submit requests every semester for help with basic needs. Students can also submit requests for items such as rent or gender-affirming care. This fund is completely donor-funded and is limited based on annual support.
As we celebrate LGBT History Month, it is important to recognize the work being done by the Gender and Sexuality Campus Center. Strassburger and the center are creating a space where all students can feel seen, heard and valued. Strassburger’s commitment to helping students shape their own futures reflects what LGBT History Month is about.
