BRISTOL R.I.  –  The Roger Williams University Queer and Trans Resource and Advocacy Center has created a new queer advocacy group called the Kinship Collaborative.

This program, created by QTRAC Assistant Director Henley Ballou, creates a space where students, staff, and faculty come together to create projects focused on gender and sexuality. The Kinship Collaborative is open to everyone, so even if you don't identify within the LGBTQIA+ community, Ballou encourages and welcomes you to join. The goal of The Collaborative is to bring more connection, care, and belonging to the Roger Williams University campus.

According to Ballou, each project will be created and decided on by the collaborative at their meetings. During their first meeting on Sept. 11, the group began working on their mission statement and gathering ideas for future projects.

Ballou said they want the projects to make the RWU campus feel more welcoming, affirming, and connected. “We know that having a community of folks, whether that’s a supportive mentor, an employee resource group, or just people in your network that you can count on, all lessen the likelihood of mental health challenges for those of us in the LGBTQIA+ community. We are quite literally stronger together.” 

While meetings for the spring semester haven’t been announced, Ballou says that the group is open to anyone with curiosity and commitment, “The Kinship Collaborative is really a chance to shape the campus climate, build leadership skills, and just work alongside other people who share a vision for a stronger community.”

If you are interested in joining the Kinship Collaborative or getting involved with the RWU Queer and Trans Resource and Advocacy Center, please reach out to Henley Ballou at hballou@rwu.edu. You can also email the center directly at diversity@rwu.edu.