EMU Today

YPSILANTI — For the first time since 2019, Eastern Michigan University will offer the Communication and the LGBTQ Community (WGST 265) course in the fall of 2024. This course explores communication patterns both about and within the LGBTQ community, providing students with an understanding of LGBTQ culture and social dynamics.

“Since the course was last offered, the discourse about the LGBTQ+ community has shifted,” said Lee Schwab, communication professor and course instructor.  “In 2023, at least 510 anti-LGBTQ bills were introduced in state legislatures across the country. These new contexts and attitudes will likely impact what is discussed.” 

The course, offered by the School of Communication, Media, and Theatre Arts and the Department of Women’s and Gender Studies, is open to all students and can fulfill the U.S. diversity requirement for the general education program. WGST 265 will also cover new terminology, such as asexuality, gender dysphoria, and the difference between being cisgender or transgender. 

Several EMU students registered for the course, expressing excitement over the material being taught. 

“I’m interested in expanding my knowledge in how communication plays a part in LGBTQ+ history and how current trends impact that,” said Katie George, a sophomore majoring in digital media and women’s and gender studies. 

“As someone in the LGBTQ+ community, I’m excited to engage with students on these topics,” said Schwab. “So many LGBTQ+ individuals have profoundly impacted the art that we love and have influenced how we communicate. I am eager to talk about that representation.” 

For more information on the class, visit the Women's and Gender Studies Department webpage. 

About Eastern Michigan University
Founded in 1849, Eastern is the second oldest public university in Michigan. It currently serves more than 13,000 students pursuing undergraduate, graduate, specialist, doctoral and certificate degrees in the arts, sciences and professions. In all, more than 300 majors, minors and concentrations are delivered through the University's Colleges of Arts and Sciences; Business; Education; Engineering and Technology; Health and Human Services; and its graduate school. National publications regularly recognize EMU for its excellence, diversity, and commitment to applied education. Visit the University’s rankings and points of pride websites to learn more. For more information about Eastern Michigan University, visit the University's website. To stay up to date on University news, activities and announcements, visit EMU Today.