WGEC: A Safe Space for All
Located on the second floor of the Shakarian Family Student Success Center, there is a place where advocacy, self-empowerment, community-building, and education thrive. That is Long Beach’s very own Women’s & Gender Equity Center.
If you walk into SSSS-240, you’ll find a resource guide to help a large community of individuals on campus to combat gender equity in academia and promote diversity in gender identity and expression.
Members of the WGEC at the Healing Our HeARTS event where students were able to use their creative expression to make their own zine. Photo courtesy of WGEC.
Back in 1976, it began as the University Women’s Center, where the focus was issues that address women, however, over the years it has become an all-inclusive center where all gender identities can access a space that assists them throughout their academic journey.
Throughout the semester, WGEC hosts on-campus events to promote its 4 pillars. Some of these events include Hugs & Harmony, How-to Series (ex: How to find your true bra fit and screen for cancer), Movie Nights, Healing our HeARTS, and more. The space is extremely welcoming and easy to access, if you walk to the second floor of the Student Success Center, you’ll find several services that can assist you in your day-to-day activities between classes.
An Open Study Space
Upon entering the WGEC you will be met with the embrace of a space for you to sit down and work on your assignments. There is an open space for small group meetings or socializing. However, if you need a little me-time, you can take space to focus on you at WGEC. There is comfortable seating and accommodations for everyone who would like to pay a visit.
Snacks and Appliances
To stay fueled up for your studies, the WGEC offers an available refrigerator and microwave for anyone who needs access to it, as well as light refreshments. It’s important to take care of your body during the school day but students often forget that small tidbit about food being fuel, so WGEC offers refreshments like coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and varying snacks.
Computer Stations and Printing for Members
The WGEC offers free printing for all members who contribute to sharing awareness about the center along with computer stations that allow students to log in and get their work done whenever needed. They do have a daily limit of 6 papers per day in order to assure everyone has accessibility.
The WGEC offers free menstrual products to members of the WGEC community. After their menstrual product drive from Oct.1 - Oct. 31, they collected a generous amount of products to go back to students on campus at no cost. Photo courtesy of WGEC.
Referrals to Community Resources
With the help of the WGEC Team, students are given referrals to any on-campus organizations as well as resources from the Long Beach Community to assist them in their academic and personal success. They partner alongside many organizations like the Womxn’s Collective and CAPS to support students whenever possible.
You can follow upcoming events and updates from the Women’s & Gender Equity Center on Instagram.