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Speakers Bureau

Purpose of the Speakers Bureau

The main purpose of the Speaker’s Bureau is to increase visibility of LGBTQ people and to counteract myths and misinformation about LGBTQ people that are prevalent in our heterosexist and trans-phobic culture. Through the creative form of story telling, speakers are able to reach an audience that has primarily never been exposed to LGBTQ issues. Furthermore, the question-and-answer part of the presentation gives people a chance to engage in conversation most have never been able to have with LBGTQ people.

To Represent the Diversity of the Queer Community

No two LGBTQ people are exactly the same, nor are they likely to have the same experiences or share the same political views. Therefore, speakers make every effort to emphasize this diversity and to speak from only a personal viewpoint rather than attempting to speak for the entire LGBTQ community.

To Demistify Queer People

There remain many people who have had little to no exposure to out LGBTQ people…many attendees are surprised to discover that our lives may not be that different from their own.

To Make Real the Oppressions of Queer People

One of the main reasons that anti-LGBTQ sentiments still exist is that people do not view LGBTQ people as oppressed. …Speakers can often provide all too real examples of discrimination and ways that being LGBTQ has negatively affected their lives, eliminating doubt as to whether or not this prejudice and discrimination actually exists. Also, many speakers can provide more global information regarding hate crimes or negative legislation that affects the community as a whole.

To Do Outreach To Members of the Audience Who May Be Questionging Their Own Sexuality or Gender Identity

Unfortunately, coming out still means facing enormous obstacles and potential isolation for many people. The Speaker's Bureau can provide a crucial link to positive role models and information for people who lack LGBTQ-positive supports in their lives.

How Does This Work?

  • Contact us and Book a Panel
  • A panel of three to five speakers comes to your requested location and tells their respective stories (coming out experiences, life as a queer or ally person etc.)
  • Time is allowed for questions from those attending

Last Updated: February 2009