Rainbow Compass Mentorship Program
The LBGTQ+ Mentorship program aims to create a structured and trusting relationship between pairs of graduate and undergraduate LBGTQ+ MIT students (mentees) together with caring LBGTQ+ faculty/staff/alumnx (mentors). The goal is to create a professional relationship where mentors provide guidance and encouragement while supporting the personal and professional development of the mentees through various matters. As a mentee, you may be seeking advice on navigating the many environments at MIT including living groups and housing, teaching and the classroom environment, advising and administration, recreation and athletics, or so many other elements not listed here. You may want to better understand your personal or social development. Perhaps you're at a point where you're thinking about contextualizing the professional environment and "being out", or generally finding life balance (yes, this is possible at MIT!)
Rainbow Compass Mentorship Program FAQ
National Coming Out Day
National Coming Out Day is observed annually on October 11th to celebrate the act of coming out as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer (LBGTQ+), or as an ally. The day aims to raise awareness about LBGTQ+ issues, promote acceptance, and support those who have come out or are considering coming out. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of creating a more inclusive and understanding society.
LBGTQ+ Leadership Retreat
The MIT LBGTQ+ Retreat is an annual event organized by the LBGTQ+ Services. It is held in off campus during the second week of October. The retreat offers a weekend of community building, networking, and leadership development for MIT students, staff, faculty who identify as LBGTQ+. Activities typically include workshops, discussions, social events, and opportunities to explore the area. The retreat aims to foster connections, support, and empowerment within the MIT LBGTQ+ community.
Trans Day of Remembrance
The MIT Trans Day of Remembrance is an annual event organized by LBGTQ+ Services and the Office of Religious, Spiritual, and Ethical Life at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) to honor the lives of transgender individuals who have been lost to anti-transgender violence. The day typically includes a live streamed memorial service, speakers, and educational programming to raise awareness about the challenges faced by the transgender community.
Trans Day of Visibility
The MIT Trans Day of Visibility is an annual event organized by LBGTQ++ Services and MIT LBGTQ+ student groups at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) to celebrate and uplift the achievements and contributions of transgender and gender non-conforming individuals. The day typically celebrated the week before MIT student head to spring break in March. The event includes workshops, panels, and social events aimed at increasing visibility and understanding of the transgender community. It serves as a platform to amplify transgender voices and promote inclusivity and acceptance.
Lavender Graduation
The MIT Lavender Graduation is an annual ceremony hosted by LBGTQ+ Services at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) to celebrate the achievements and contributions of LGBTQ+ students, faculty, and staff. The event occurs during the first week of March and is live streamed. The even includes speeches, awards, and the presentation of lavender cords or stoles to graduating LGBTQ+ individuals and their allies. Lavender Graduation provides a supportive and affirming space for LGBTQ+ community members to reflect on their experiences and accomplishments, as well as to connect with others in the MIT community.