Queer Community Program & Organizations

Rocky plush holding a pride ribbon and surrounded by candies

Montclair State University is home to a vibrant and affirming queer community, supported by programs, policies, housing options, and student organizations designed to help you feel seen, valued, and at home. 

Whether you’re looking for identity-centered groups, gender inclusive policies, or wellness resources, you’ll find a campus committed to creating spaces where all students can thrive.

Find Community

Whether you’re looking for identity-focused groups, campus events, or gender-inclusive recreation, there’s a place for you.

Green, yellow, red, and blue ball weights lined up on a gym floor.

Gender-Inclusive Sports & Intramurals

We offer recreation spaces where every student can get moving and feel welcome. Our Open (gender-inclusive) league creates room for all students — transgender, nonbinary, queer, and allied — to participate in sports without barriers.

Pile of buttons that say GSWS for Gender Sexuality and Women's Studies

Affinity Groups

Student-led organizations are at the heart of Montclair’s queer community. These groups create space for belonging, cultural expression, and support on campus and beyond.

Exterior of Machuga Heights.

Special Interest Housing

You should feel at home in your living space, so we offer housing options designed with inclusion in mind. 

With Open Housing, you can choose your own suitemates based on mutual preference rather than restrictive placement policies. 

We also offer an Inclusive & Affirming Living Learning Space, a community that blends leadership opportunities, educational programming, and human-rights-centered advocacy with a strong emphasis on connection and belonging. Whether you identify as queer or as an ally, this living-learning community is open to all students.

Health & Wellness

Your well-being matters, and Montclair provides affirming, accessible resources to support LGBTQ+ students across every dimension of health.

  • The Student Health Insurance Plan covers gender-affirming care, including hormone therapy and gender-confirming surgeries.
  • Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) offers trans-inclusive counselors trained to support LGBTQ+ students with compassion and expertise.

Creating a Culture of Respect

We are committed to fostering a safe and welcoming environment for all students. See how we're able to cultivate a culture of respect on campus.

Preferred Name Policy

You can use your chosen name across many University systems, helping ensure your identity is reflected on your ID card, class rosters, and campus directory. You’ll even be able to walk across the stage at commencement with your preferred name.

Safe Space Program

Established in 1997, Montclair’s Safe Space Program empowers students, staff, and faculty to build a safer and more inclusive campus. 

Through interactive activities, discussions, and practical tools, participants learn to challenge homophobia, biphobia, transphobia, cissexism, and heterosexism and become active allies within the community.

Have Questions? We’re Here to Help.