LGBTQ Resources
Stay Connected
Join us on Facebook 
to stay connected to events happening both on campus and around the world. The University at Buffalo LGBTQ Allies page is constantly updated with information about programs, workshops, events happening on campus and news affecting the LGBTQ community at UB, in Buffalo, at the state, national and international levels.
On Site, WES Services
Wellness Education Services has a number of resources available on LGBTQ issues, such as: resource binders, LGBTQ library, DVDs. WES is also a Safe Zone safe space for all, with Safe Zone trained staff available for consultations.
Drop-In Support
Drop-in support is available for any student with questions; need to talk to someone; or wanting resources about LGBTQ issues and identities. We provide support, resources and referral for students that are in the process of coming out as LGBTQ, have questions about their identity, looking for ways to connect with the LGBTQ community, and/or looking for ways to advocate for LGBTQ issues on campus.
LGBTQ Library Materials at Wellness Education Services
Wellness Education Services has many LGBTQ-related books and DVDs offered through our lending library. Students are welcome to use the materials in our Relaxation Suite, or check them out for use outside of the suite. All DVDs and books should be checked out at and returned to our front desk.
Queer Exchange Newsletter
Queer Exchange is our bi-semester newsletter. It is filled with news stories, information on upcoming events, and stories and people and programs that make UB a great place for our LGBTQ community.
Single-Stall Restrooms
For students looking for single-stall bathrooms, you will find them on both the North and South campuses. These bathrooms may still be gender labeled, but are single use.
| North Campus | South Campus |
|---|---|
| B96 CFA | 1103 Kimball Tower |
| B98 CFA | 301 Parker Hall |
| 308 Math Building | 14 Sherman Hall |
| 309 Math Building |
Staying Healthy
**The 2011-12 UB Student Insurance plan for domestic students covers counseling, HRT and surgery for transitioning students needing access to these types of care.** Visit the SBI Student Medical Insurance
webpage for more information.
Accessing Health Care at UB
The Student Wellness Team (Health Services, Counseling Services, and Wellness Education Services) is committed to providing accessible health care to all students in a safe, welcoming and comfortable environment. We encourage you use our services as a way to support your overall health and well-being. For more information about our offices and services, visit the Student Wellness Team website.
Supporting Healthy Living
Smart party tips
When making decisions about drinking alcohol, most students choose to drink at moderate levels or to not drink at all. Also, planning out your evening can be a smart way to stay safe and have fun. Stop by Wellness Education Services to pick up a BAC (Blood Alcohol Content) card to help you with your planning. Please visit the Alcohol and Other Drugs page for more information.
Quitting Smoking
Smoking is a serious health issue for all populations including LGBTQ people. If you smoke or know someone at UB who smokes and would like to quit, Wellness is here to help. We offer free nicotine replacement therapy and support for UB students that would like to quit smoking. Please visit the Supporting a Smoke-Free Campus page for more information.
Healthy Relationships
Characteristics of a healthy relationship (whether it is a long-term relationship or a one-time hook-up) are consensual, non-exploitive, honest, respectful, pleasurable for all, and safe. These are characteristics that describe the many relationships that LGBTQ people have with their partner(s).
However, if you are in or have been in a relationship in which you have been or are currently being sexually assaulted, we encourage you to report the assault even if it happened years ago.
Healthy Sex Life
Understanding how to maintain a healthy sex life is important for all sexually active and non-sexually active people including those individuals that choose to practice abstinence. Three main components of a healthy sex life are:
- Communication - It is imperative to have clear, affirming consent from the person(s) you would like to have sex with before engaging in sexual activity with them. **Please remember that if someone has been drinking alcohol or is under the influence of a substance, they are and should be considered unable to provide clear, affirming consent.**
- Use protection – Latex barriers, when used properly, are very effective at preventing the transmission of most sexually transmitted infections. If you are using birth control medication for pregnancy prevention, please remember that the medication does not prevent transmission of STIs. It is still important to use a latex barrier even when taking birth control medication. Latex Barriers (male condoms, female condoms, and latex sheets *for vaginal and anal oral sex*) are available at the front desk at Wellness Education Services (114 Student Union) and at Student Health Services (Michael Hall, South Campus).
- Know your status – it is important for sexually active people to know their STI and HIV status. If you have not been tested recently, have engaged in unprotected sex, or have never had your status tested, it is important for you to get tested. Student Health Services has partnered with the Erie County Department of Health to offer confidential STI and HIV testing to any registered UB student. The cost is $10 and billed directly to the student’s account. Test results are typically received in 2-3 weeks. Call 829-3316 and ask for an appointment for UB TESTED to meet with a health care provider and determine which tests are recommended for you, based on your sexual lifestyle. To learn more about Health Services, please visit their home page.
Mental Well-being
LGBTQ people live successful, happy, productive lives and exhibit great resiliency in spite of sometimes negative reactions to our identities and community. However, if you are felling upset, depressed, concerned or confused because of identity, family and friends reactions, or for any other reason, please know that help and support are available. Counseling Services supports LGBTQ students in their personal journey towards becoming healthy, self-accepting LGBTQ individuals while at the same time addressing any other concerns they may have. To learn more about Counseling Center, please visit their home page.
Additional Resources
Other on-campus resources:
- Counseling Services
- Student Health Services
- Intercultural and Diversity Center
- Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender Alliance Student Association
- The LGBTA SA office (362 SU) is a great place to hang out between classes whether you're lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or an ally. They coordinate Coming Out Week festivities, drag queen shows in the Student Union Lobby and much more. Membership in LGBTA is open to all! There are many degrees of involvement and everyone can help out in their own way.