Faculty Publications

An Autoethnographic Exploration of the Realities of Engaging in Trans and Queer Center(ed) Diversity Work

Document Type

Article

Keywords

diversity work, higher education, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer centers, trans and queer center(ed) diversity work

Journal/Book/Conference Title

Journal of Diversity in Higher Education

Volume

18

Issue

2

First Page

111

Last Page

122

Abstract

Although research on trans and queer (TQ) center(ed) diversity work is on the rise, there is still a need to isolate how campus structures inform the experiences practitioners have and to what extent they can transform climates in ways they desire to. To address this gap, this article presents the results of a collaborative autoethnographic study featuring nine scholars and practitioners passionate about TQ center(ed) diversity work. Namely, the group formed and explored our past and present experiences with TQ center(ed) diversity work in higher education and how institutional structures inhibit/ed our advocacy for TQ communities. This study’s attention to individual experiences of producing diversity work on campus revealed dynamics of hegemony and oppression. Findings illustrated how we found our way to TQ center(ed) diversity work and discovered the challenges and barriers present in doing so. We also speak to how institutional environments disenfranchise TQ center(ed) diversity work, affecting the practitioners who engage in these roles in the process. We conclude with implications for practice, highlighting how institutional leaders can create better conditions for those involved in TQ center(ed) diversity work.

Department

Gender and Sexuality Services

Original Publication Date

4-1-2025

DOI of published version

10.1037/dhe0000501

Link to Full Text

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