A Message from the Interim Dean of Students

Members of Our LGBTQ+ Student Community:

I’m writing to you during a very heavy week for the UB community and especially those in the LGBTQ+ community. I know many of you are angry, scared, and confused in regards to why a speaker who espouses views that reject transgender individuals, can be permitted to speak at the university, a place that commits to prioritizing the wellbeing of all students. A message from President Tripathi was shared earlier today if you are looking for more information.

Many staff, faculty, and community members also share your concerns. We have received calls and emails with people looking for ways to support and protect transgender students and others heavily affected by this event. I want you to know that as the Interim Dean of Students, I support you as the university navigates the nuances and challenges inherent to upholding social justice and First Amendment rights.

I want to share with you some upcoming events and resources that show our university values, some of which I know you’re a part of or connected to:  

• Wed. 3/8 at 10:30 p.m. and Thu. 3/9 at 5:30 p.m.: Paint-A-Bull gatherings will be outside the SU. Please connect with the Intercultural and Diversity Center (IDC) to confirm your attendance.
• Thu. 3/9 during the day: Multiple organizations are tabling in solidarity with the community in the SU Lobby. This will include campus groups like the IDC, UB Prism, Hillel, OUTPatient, LGBTA, and the LGBTQ Faculty and Staff Association as well as community groups like the Pride Center of WNY, Evergreen Health, MOCHA Center, and Our City Action Buffalo. Hours for some of the groups may vary between 11:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., with the majority between the hours of 11:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.
• Thu. 3/9 from 6:00 - 9:00 p.m.: The IDC is hosting an After-Hours Event in SU 240 as an opportunity to mingle, play games, and enjoy snacks together.
• Thu.  3/9 from 7:00 - 8:30 p.m.:  The Joyful Rebellion Dance Party will be held in the SU Lobby.

These events are only a few of many that I anticipate seeing from members of the University at Buffalo community in the coming days. UB will show continuous support for our LGBTQ+ students through events such as Pride Week the week of April 10.  

I want to encourage you and your members to reach out to on-and-off campus resources as needed, including Counseling Services, the Intercultural & Diversity Center, Student Engagement, Health Promotion, Equity, Diversity, & Inclusion and WNY Crisis Services.

Your involvement and engagement make our community stronger.

Sincerely,

Elizabeth Lidano
Interim Dean of Students