On behalf of Western USC, Gender Equity Network (GEN) works to support students of all gender identities on Western campus, primarily through programming, events, advocacy initiatives, research projects, and social media. From an intersectional perspective (i.e. a perspective informed by how gender connects with race, sexuality, socio-economic status, disability, religion, etc.), GEN dedicates itself to continually improving the Western student experience for students that are frequently marginalized and underrepresented, such as non-binary and gender-fluid individuals, transgender and cisgender women, and transgender and cisgender men. Using student feedback, the heart of GEN’s mission is to illuminate issues of gender inequality on campus, to make strides in tackling these issues, and overall to improve the Western student experience, so that students of all gender identities feel safe and supported by the Western community. 

Gender Equity Network is known for public initiatives such as the annual US-She Day event (which happens in the New Year and features speakers, activities, and more), as well as GEN’s roundtable and podcast discussions about issues on campus, and social media campaigns such as the “Swipe On…” and “Movember Memories” series’ (both of which focused on men’s mental health and wellness). 

Behind the face of GEN is a committee of passionate and driven student volunteers, who are dedicated to GEN’s mission and want to partake in creating real change for intersectional support and representation on campus.