Ann Arbor Times

Eastern Michigan University will host its second annual Queer Talks event on January 31, 2025, at the Honors College in Ypsilanti. The event, organized by the Honors College and LGBT Resource Center, is free and aims to support and empower queer students.

Nick Malendowski, assistant director of the Honors College, stated that "In 2025, queer individuals are facing anti-LGBTQIA+ legislation and being stigmatized at higher rates." He emphasized the importance of creating a supportive community through events like Queer Talks.

The event will feature a keynote presentation by EMU alumni Nick Clark, who is an assistant coach of women's volleyball at the University of Michigan. Clark will discuss his experiences as a queer individual in athletics. Additionally, seven students will present on topics such as intersectionality and transgender individuals in the prison system.

Entertainment will be provided by ten local drag artists with EMU student Logan Wilkowski hosting. Wilkowski noted that LGBT resources were a significant factor in choosing to attend EMU. "Events like Queer Talks make me proud to be an EMU student," he said.

Malendowski revived the Queer Talks event after discovering its history upon taking his role in 2023. This year’s event includes more student involvement and has received support from the American College Personnel Association’s Coalition of Sexuality & Gender Identities, offering attendees a paid lunch.

Wilkowski expressed hope that events like Queer Talks would encourage queer students to seek community support: “People are going through the same things you are. Don’t be afraid to ask for help or to seek out the community because we are waiting for you with open arms.”

For further details about Queer Talks and related resources, interested parties can visit Eastern Michigan University's website.

Eastern Michigan University was founded in 1849 and serves nearly 13,000 students across various disciplines. It is recognized nationally for excellence and diversity.