Rustin Community Provides New Option for Student Housing
The Office for LGBT Services, along with Housing and Residence Life at U of L, is proud to announce the launch of a them
ed housing option for students who are interested in lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) issues. The new community, named for gay civil rights activist Bayard Rustin, is scheduled to open Fall 2012. Students may begin applying to live in the Rustin Community now.
Adjusting to college life can be challenging for many students, especially those at a large, urban university like U of L. The Rustin Community is the first of its kind at a Kentucky college or university, providing students the opportunity to be part of an intentional community of supportive others who want to create safe, welcoming spaces to talk about sexual orientation, gender expression, and the spectrum of identity.
All residence halls at U of L include a programming component for residents, but themed communities focus more specifically on an area of common interest or study. At U of L, there are communities for leadership, Engineering, and others. Research on student development suggests that membership in a living/learning community or themed housing supports retention, academic success, and an overall sense of connection to campus life.
The Rustin Community may be the right housing option if you:
• Want to live and study with others who are interested in LGBT issues and concerns
• Are interested in social justice and activism
• Would like support in exploring aspects of your own identity
• Are inspired by the life of Bayard Rustin to serve others
• Interested in building a better world where all people are valued and appreciated
Bayard Rustin was a key advisor to Dr. Martin Luther King and organized the 1963 March on Washington. He was deeply committed to the principles of nonviolence as an activist, and taught them to King and other leaders. Because of his identity as a gay man, his contributions to the Civil Rights Movement were sometimes hidden or overlooked.
Everyone is welcome to apply. The benefits of living in the community include intentional programs and conversations about LGBT identity and social justice, community-led service projects and activities, and the chance to build a strong network of support.
How to Apply
and click on the "Apply Now" link. While filling out the application, you will be prompted to fill out an interest form for the living community where you would like to live.
If you have already filled out your application or are a returning resident, you can still fill out the interest form located here.
The community will be located in University Tower Apartments, which includes studio style, one-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments.
Visit UTA online to learn more about the building.
