What do we mean when we say "queer"?
What is it like being queer at Swarthmore? What is SQU?
What is QSA?
What is COLORS?
What is PersuAsian?
What is Picante?

We use the term "queer" as an inclusive word for lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans*, and any other labels used to identify oneself as non-heterosexual and/or non-cisgender.

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Swarthmore has a strong commitment to diversity and tolerance. Here, queer people are included in that vision and seen as an important part of the community. Most queer students find Swarthmore a genuinely comfortable place, and most students, professors, and staff who aren't queer are queer-friendly. This does not mean that Swarthmore is a perfect place; there is always room for improvement.

Students experience being queer at Swat in different ways, and there are as many queer experiences as there are queer people. Whether you need support, want to be politically active, or just want to party, there are lots of resources available to you.

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The Swarthmore Queer Union (SQU) is an organization that seeks to improve the life of lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans*, queer, and questioning students and is only for students who self-identify in these ways. SQU is dedicated to building a community for these students that is a safe, confidential space for members to explore their individual and community identities, share experiences, and reflect on community issues. In addition to having weekly meetings, SQU sponsors speakers, workshops, student/faculty/staff events, open meetings, awareness and outreach events, and parties throughout the year. SQU also advocates to the administration for queer and questioning issues related to student life, faculty, and curriculum.

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The Queer Straight Alliance (QSA) is the main vehicle for queer activism on campus, and is open to all students. QSA also sponsors open social events, such as movie nights, and seeks to promote discussion and awareness of queer issues on campus.

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COLORS is a group dedicated to serving students who identify as both queer and of color.

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PersuAsian is a group for those who identify as both queer and Asian.

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Picante is a group for those who identify as both queer and Hispanic or Latin@.

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