The EWU Career Center supports students who are members of our LGBTQIA+ communities. We understand that you may want resources that address your particular interests and answer questions that pertain to your identities in the workplace. With that in mind, we’ve created this resource guide to provide you with a range of information. While the guide isn’t exhaustive, it’s a good place to begin gathering information on career planning, professional development, and knowing your rights in the workplace. We encourage you to make an appointment with a career advisor who can assist you with navigating your career and answering questions you may have after reviewing these resources.
Know Your Employment Rights
It is important to know your legal rights in the workplace. These cover topics like illegal interview questions, discrimination and bullying, or your use of benefits and leave. These issues can be challenging to figure out on your own. Below are a few resources to help you understand your legal rights in your career. As always, if something is unclear, we’re happy to discuss and help you understand these resources.
- U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission: What You Should Know About EEOC and the Enforcement Protections for LGBT Workers
- National Center for Transgender Equality
- National Center for Lesbian Rights (includes legal issues, transgender issues)
- ACLU WA – The Rights of Transgender People in Washington State
- U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission
- Workers Rights – Washington State
- Washington State Human Rights Commission – File a Complaint
Job & Internship Search Resources
In addition to this list, see our Online Search page for general online job boards. Also, see our Professional Networking page to learn about finding opportunities through your relationships.
Fellowship, Internship, and Scholar Programs
These programs are funded opportunities that help you gain experience in your future career. They look great on your resume and show your commitment to your field. You can also access important professional networks that will help you with your job search when the fellowship or program is over.
- EWU McNair Scholars’ Program
- POINT Foundation
- Funders for LGBTQ Issues
- American Medical Association Fellowship
- Fastweb – LGBTQ+ Community Scholarships & Internships
Educational Articles/Resources
These resources will help you learn how to direct your college experience toward specific goals. They also provide general information about identity and the workplace.
- Career Education Resources for LGBTQ Students
- Out For Undergrads
- Corporate Equality Index – The national benchmarking tool on corporate policies, practices and benefits pertinent to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer employees.
Organizations/Associations
Join or research a few professional organizations. You’ll meet other people in your community and field who can share their knowledge and perspective. This will give you a better understanding of your identity in the workplace.
- National LGBT Chamber of Commerce
- Out Professionals
- Gay Lesbian and Straight Education Network
- Pride At Work: LGBTQ Union Workers
Washington Organizations
You can find more resources and assistance in your region. Also, getting involved locally is a good way to build your connections while you are still in school.
Other Campus Resources
EWU also provides other organizations and resources to help support you. Visit the following connections and make friends. Reach out to a career advisor if you need help.