CJ Sanchez (he/him)

CJ Sanchez

Identity: Gay

What motivates you to be visible on campus?

As an alumni of the University of Rhode Island I anxiously attended and participated in events and activities at the former LGBTQ+ center when it was a small area in Adams Hall. I was so hesitant to be myself at that time and then I was an orientation leader where I first shared with large groups of people, friends and strangers alike, my identity. It was tough to be latino and gay where a lot of preconceived notions and societal expectations were pushed towards me. From graduation I took every opportunity I could to educate, represent, and increase visibility of LGBTQ+ identities. While in AmeriCorps I facilitated diversity, equity, and inclusion workshops for teams that truly dove into the topics and made space for uncomfortability but learning. I later went on to provide Safe Zone trainings in Nicaragua while I was a Peace Corps volunteer, working with host families and local Nicaraguan staff and community members to create a safer environment for LGBTQ+ individuals in a highly religious and machista culture. I am proud to have made several connections and to have visibly seen people’s perspectives change for the better in regards to our community.

I was lucky to be able to continue facilitating these trainings by working with the University of Washington Q Center. In that space we would provide safer zone trainings with an emphasis on anti racism and anti oppression educating staff, students, and community members in Seattle the importance of dismantling all forms of oppression in our practice. While working in the Career Center at the University of Washington I was able to spearhead our staff’s diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts. Leading trainings and pushing conversations to increase our staff’s abilities to provide for our students.

While working in the ed tech sector I was able to liaison and take part in the leadership team of Out In Tech – Seattle Chapter. My main goal was to bring people together and help build mentorship and professional advancement for our queer and trans community members. Upon moving back to Rhode Island I only hope to continue my efforts in providing a safe and enriching environment for our students in the LGBTQ+ community especially the queer and trans students of color.