The Office of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Student Services, also known as the Rainbow Lounge, is one of the oldest centers of its kind in the country. Founded in 1969, GAMIT (Gays at MIT) began work on building a strong sense of community through social, political and academic programming. Nearly 40 years later, the Rainbow Lounge is the place to hang out, plan events, and catch up with friends (Bldg 50-005). Along with the Program Coordinator for LBGT Services, five student groups representing women, graduate and undergraduate students, Sloan Students and Alumni all work together to build a safer community for everyone.
Additionally, the LBGT Issues Group forms the core of advocacy here on campus. The Issues Group helps to advise the LBGT Program Coordinator and addresses social justice concerns on campus as well as plans outstanding social and academic events. The Issues Group meets once a month during the academic year and is comprised of LBGT students, faculty and staff as well as allies.
It is easy for LBGT and questioning students and allies to get involved with LBGT programs and groups. You can send an email to lbgt@mit.edu to ask for support, join a group or simply to subscribe to the monthly newsletter listserve. The newsletter provides information about happenings around campus and in the vibrant Boston community. You can also participate in the "You Are Welcome Here" campaign. The campaign encourages all MIT community members to display 3.5 X 5.5 cards in their doorways, offices and living groups as a way to show support for LBGT students, faculty and staff.