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Frequently Asked Questions

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Need more information on the Gender Equity Resource Center at Cornell? We’ve provided some frequently asked questions below that will hopefully help answer other questions you may have and provide further information on the center, its mission, and purpose.

Where is the Gender Equity Center located?

You can find us in Willard Straight Hall in the Dean of Student's suite on the 2nd floor, below Okenshields. For more details, visit our Instagram to see the way.

What is the need for a gender equity resource center?

Women (cis and trans), agender, gender fluid and nonbinary people face systemic barriers and challenges as they navigate Cornell and the larger world. The exact barriers they face depend on what other identities they hold, their fields of study, their chosen co-curricular activities and many other variables. The connecting thread is that historically, the world we live in was built to benefit cis, heterosexual, white men. Folks who hold identities other than that are at a structural disadvantage. This might look like the experience of pay inequity, gender-based violence, microaggressions rooted in racism and sexism, and cultural norms that discourage authentic expressions of power and anger, among  many other things.

At Gender Equity, we start from a place of intersectional feminism: the understanding of how women’s overlapping identities — including race, class, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation and disability status — impact the way they experience oppression and discrimination. We acknowledge the unique experiences of women and gender expansive students. We understand that your life is shaped by your gender, race, socioeconomic status, ability level, country of origin, citizenship status, and sexual orientation. At the Gender Equity Resource Center, we seek to support you in those intersections where you need support and to celebrate you in your wholeness.

 What resources does the Gender Equity Resource Center provide?

GenEq offers three different kinds of resources.

First, we are a physical place you can come, relax, study and find connection in a comfortable environment with other people who care about intersectional feminism. While you're here, you can nap on the couch, use a heating pad for cramps, sit in a Shelter Chair, or benefit from a therapy light.

Second, we provide many items for free that make navigating life on campus easier for women and gender expansive students. These include free sustainable and single-use period products, pregnancy tests, safer sex supplies, and emergency contraception. We also have snacks and tea for you to enjoy when you drop by.

Lastly, the professional staff of GenEq are what's called Confidential Resources. You can connect with us if you've experienced bias, gender-based violence or other harm and want to talk through your next steps and get connected to other resources. As Confidential Resources, we are not obligated to report to the Office of Title IX, which may be important for some students.

 How does the Center work with the Feminist, Gender & Sexuality Studies Program?

The center has a strong connection with the Feminist, Gender & Sexuality Studies Program. We provide a multitude of resources, activities and opportunities for FGSS students and faculty. For students pursuing a FGSS Undergraduate Minor, Undergraduate Concentration, or Graduate Minor, the center allows a place for theory and praxis to merge through experiential learning, activism, and community service opportunities. To find out more about the Feminist, Gender & Sexuality Studies Program call (607) 255-6480 or check out their website. 

 What are some reasons why someone would visit the Gender Equity Resource Center?

  • To find community with others who are impacted by intersectional gender equity issues

  • To make the most of our many resources, including free giveaways, confidential conversations, and our amazing library.
  • To experience ease and a sense of comfort and coziness during your day, whether you are relaxing, studying or napping.
  • Because we have a great student staff who are happy to talk with you, show you around and share their areas of expertise.
  • Our gender justice library has many books you can take out for writing a paper or reading for pleasure.

 How can I become involved?

  • Follow us on instagram @geneq.cornell

  • Visit the Center and enjoy all that we have to offer
  • Attend our programs
  • Join our volunteer program, Friends of GenEq, for opportunities to connect with our student staff and other Cornellians interested in gender equity initiatives
  • Apply to be part of our great student employee cohort the next time we have openings.

 Can men and other people who do not identify as women become involved in the Gender Equity Resource Center?

Yes! Men and people of any gender identity can be and are involved with the Women's Resource Center. People of all genders may utilize our resources and services, attend our programs, participate in community service activities, support our efforts, and join our various student organizations focused on gender justice and equity. Seeing as it is important to have allies of all identities involved in all movements for social justice, there are plenty of ways to get involved and be an ally. Male identifying students can follow our social media, join our events, read feminist literature, and show up for women and gender expansive folks as supporters and allies. If you are a man and have questions or want to learn more about the center, you can contact us here.

 What is a confidential resource?

When you have experienced bias or gender-based violence, you may want support, someone with whom to think through next steps, or help connecting to resources for physical and emotional care. A confidential resource can provide these supports without being obligated to report to the Office of Title IX. 

Conversations are kept strictly confidential and will not be shared (including to faculty, coaches, parents, etc.) without explicit permission. The exception to this is if we are concerned that you may cause harm to yourself or others.