Translate
Queer-affirming Housing
Updated May 2024
Queer-affirming housing is one way we support students who are LGBTQIA2S+ or exploring their gender identity. Housing partners with the Pride Center to help support students in the Queer community and create an inclusive residential living experience.
This video provides more information on Queer-affirming housing at Cal Poly.
Housing uses the term “Queer-affirming” to help make the distinction between a truly LGBTQIA2S-affirming space versus a mixed-gender space (where students of different genders live together).
- Queer-affirming rooms are designed for students in the LBTQIA2S+ community who seek a fully supportive and welcoming place to live.
- Mixed-gender rooms are typically for students who don’t identify as LGBTQIA2S+ and want to live with students of different genders.
Queer-affirming goes beyond acceptance and is an environment where students who identify as Queer, a term "to include many people, including those who do not identify as exclusively straight and/or people who have non-binary or gender-expansive identities” (source) are fully welcomed in a supportive community.
Queer-affirming housing is widely available in both first-year and continuing Residential Learning Communities (RLCs). Every room in the Pride RLC is a Queer-affirming room.
Queer-affirming housing is available to any student who selects this preference in their housing application.
If you are not yet out to your family or supporters and must submit inaccurate information on your application, call us at 805-756-1226 or email at housing@calpoly.edu. You can also contact our Housing Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion here or the Pride Center here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a parent influence placement?
Cal Poly respects the decisions and confidentiality of students as they complete their housing contract, in accordance with FERPA guidelines. Students can contact Housing Administration at 805-756-1226 with questions or concerns.
Is living in Queer-affirming housing protected information?
Yes, even if supporters/family financially support a student, this information won’t be shared as it is protected by FERPA.
Where can I find more information on how to request to live in a Queer-affirming housing option?
Please feel free to contact Housing Administration at 805-756-1226 with questions or concerns.
Where can I learn more about the Cal Poly LGBTQIA+ community?
Visit the Pride Center website, call 805-756-7733 or email pride@calpoly.edu.
Can students request not to be placed in Queer-affirming housing?
Queer-affirming housing is optional.
What do the restrooms and showers look like in communities where Queer-affirming housing is offered?
Bathroom and shower layouts vary from community to community, and sometimes even from building to building. Take a look at all of them here.
