A cozy space for queer connection
Mission and vision
The Lionel Cantú Queer Resource Center co-creates experiences with and for students, staff, and faculty to challenge cisheteronormative understandings of gender and sexuality. We build a more inclusive campus community by providing resources, care, advocacy, and education that disrupts binaries and honors the intersecting realities and dynamics within gender and sexual diversities. We envision communities where people of all genders and sexualities are able to thrive and celebrate their whole personhood.
Visit the Cantú Cabin
Tucked behind Merrill and Crown Colleges, the Cantú Queer Center is a cozy, treehouse-like space where students can connect, feel affirmed, and find support. Whether you’re stopping by to attend an event, ask questions, or just rest between classes, the Cabin offers resources, care, advocacy, and education in a welcoming environment.
All-gender restroom locations
All-gender restrooms are available throughout the UCSC campus, providing inclusive facilities for everyone in our community. These restrooms are especially important for transgender and nonbinary individuals—and thanks to the continued advocacy of students, staff, and the Cantú Queer Center, access to all-gender restrooms is growing across campus.
Explore the Cantú Clothing Closet
Find (free!) clothing and accessories that support your gender expression in a welcoming space. The Cantú Clothing Closet offers everything from everyday wear to gender-affirming items like chest binders, tucking underwear, and more. It’s here for trans, gender-nonconforming, and queer students who want to try out new styles without the pressure of traditional shopping.
Looking for binders, packers, or trans tape? Visit our Gender Affirming Gear (GAG) Closet page to learn more.
Your safety matters
If you or someone you know has experienced harassment or discrimination, you have support. The Office for Equity and Equal Protection (EEP) handles all complaints of discrimination or harassment on the basis of protected characteristics (such as race, disability, sex, gender, religion, and age) for all community members, including students. You can submit a report online at any time.
Stay connected
UCSC Resource Centers: Working together to support all students
The Lionel Cantu Queer Center is part of a network of campus resource centers that work together to support all students. In collaboration with centers like AARCC, AIRC, El Centro, AA/PIRC, and Women’s Center, we offer shared programs, resources, and spaces that celebrate identity, build community, and promote belonging. In addition to exploring our offerings, we encourage you to check out the many events, services, and opportunities provided by our partner centers across campus. UCSC resource centers are open to all students, and everyone is welcome.
African American Resource and Cultural Center
Connect with the African American Resource and Cultural Center for events, community, cultural support, and resources.
American Indian Resource Center
The AIRC supports American Indian students with programs, events, and tools for success, while connecting them with Native communities and UC Santa Cruz.
Asian American/Pacific Islander Resource Center
Explore support, community, and events focused on SWANA (Southwest Asian and North African) and AAPI (Asian American and Pacific Islander) cultures.
El Centro: Chicanx Latinx Resource Center
The Chicanx Latinx Resource Center serves as a hub of organized activities and resources that support Latiné student transition, retention, graduation, and academic advancement.
Lionel Cantú Queer Center
Get support and connect with the LGBTQIA+ community. Find resources, community and join events for queer, trans, and non-binary individuals.
Women’s Center
The Women’s Center provides safe spaces, empowering events, basic needs, and other resources, striving to affirm the dignity and diversity of all women.
