The Trans+ club’s new president, Kale Michael, aims to foster a more welcoming environment for the transgender community to increase student involvement on UMKC’s campus.
Trans+ is a social club as well as an advocacy group. A welcoming environment is very important in the LGBTQIA+ community, and there are not many safe spaces for transgender students.
“We are focusing more on community involvement within the transgender community at UMKC,” Michael said. “At our first meeting, we will be establishing community agreements within everyone for the group itself.”
New to the board this year, Michael has plans for the rest of the school year in order to increase student involvement in the club. One of her goals is to create a safe space and provide resources for transgender students who need it.
She wants the group to feel less hierarchical and more welcoming, hoping to increase their overall participation.
“My goal is that everyone feels their voice is heard,” Michael said. “Existing as a trans person on campus, or even in Missouri is considered radical.”
She believes having social support systems for trans individuals is advocacy in itself, as people absolutely need a sanctuary where they can authentically be themselves.
Trans+ helps provide students with gender-affirming care. Michael explains that she helps members to change their preferred name on pathway, as well as provide resources such as a clothes swap that allows students to share clothes that can make them feel less gender dysphoria.
The club meets every Thursday at 6 p.m. in the Student Union in the Rainbow Lounge, room 302. To keep up with the organization, follow their Instagram or find them on RooGroups to sign up for meetings and special events.
