CampOUT

CampOUT is an in-person social discussion space for students to connect with each other about experiences related to coming out in connection to sexual orientation and gender identity. The program recognizes that coming out is a process, and for many, this can be a unique and life-changing experience. CampOUT exists as an opportunity for students to discuss their experiences and challenges related to coming out, learn from others' experiences, and foster a space to build community. CampOUT is for students navigating ALL stages of coming, regardless of how many or how few people you're 'out' to. 

 

At CampOUT, we recognize that confidentiality and privacy are important to many of our attendees. If you are interested in attending CampOUT, please register with the link below. These discussions are open to both undergraduate and graduate students.

 

Guidelines and features:

 

You are not required to share your name or disclose any information about yourself. If you are comfortable with introducing yourself, we ask that you do this when you are speaking for the first time.

 

Structure of CampOUT: The discussions at CampOUT are generally meant to be unstructured, in that the attendees have the ability to frame the discussion around themes that suit them. The hope is that the discussions can connect back to themes related to coming out with people speaking from their lived experiences. Additionally, folks can participate at their own comfort level and can choose what they want to share with others.

 

Facilitator of CampOUT: The lead facilitator is generally a student employee who works out of the Sexual and Gender Diversity Office within the Student Experience department at the university. This facilitator is there to help make the space welcoming to all attendees and helps set the tone for the discussions each week. The facilitator also has lived experiences of coming out and is able to share their experiences with attendees.

 

Attendees of CampOUT: Any students who are thinking about coming out, in the process of coming out, or have experiences of coming out are welcome to attend. The program recognizes that folks go through varying stages of coming out in their lives (i.e. to themselves, to family, to friends, to colleagues), and folks will have the ability to share their experiences and challenges no matter where they are in this process.

 

If you are looking for ways to support your friends or others with their coming out, you are encouraged to connect with the Sexual and Gender Diversity Advisor who can offer assistance.

 

Confidentiality: The online meeting space of the CampOUT discussions remains private. Additionally, attendees are not required to disclose their personal information, such as names, to other attendees though some may choose to do this. We ask that attendees be respectful of others and not share identifiable information with folks outside of CampOUT.

 

One-on-one resource: The Student Experience department has a Sexual and Gender Diversity Advisor who is available for meetings with students outside of the CampOUT space. The Advisor can also facilitate connections with other resources on campus and in the Guelph community that are available to offer support.

 

Please email campout@uoguelph.ca if you would like to discuss specific accessibility accommodations.