"Make it happy, make it snappy, make it gay!"
-Roger DeBris, The Producers

FAQ

The questions below are divided into categories for the city, University, GLBTAU, and community resources/crisis information, which includes questions ranging from HIV testing to domestic violence. Click on a Question to be brought straight to the answer.

Contents:

1. Iowa City
   1. Are there alternatives to the bar scene?
      
   2. Is there a Gay Bar?
      
   3. Are there any groups for GLBTA teenagers?
   4. Are there any pride shops?
      
2. The University of Iowa
   
   1. What is it like being GLBT in the dorms?
      
   2. What should I do if I am harassed for being GLBT?
      
   3. Are there any groups or events specifically for GLBT Graduate students?
      
   4. Can I major in Queer Studies?
      
   5. What is Safezone?
      
3. The GLBTAU
   
   1. Does it cost anything to join the GLBTAU?
      
   2. Can allies come to GLBTAU meetings?
      
   3. How can I get involved?
      
   4. If I go to a GLBTAU event, will that "out" me?
      
   5. I don't want to be involved just yet, where can I just make some friends?
      
   6. What is the Executive Board?
      
   7. How involved does the GLBTAU get with local politics?
      
   8. Was the name of this group formally GLBTU?
      
4. Resources & Crisis Information
   
   1. Where can I get tested for an STD?
      
   2. Where can I get free protection?
      
   3. Are there counseling or therapy services for GLBT Issues?
      
   4. Where can I get information on Domestic Violence?
      
   5. Where can I go for help with substance abuse?
      
   6. Are there GLBT groups specifically for alcohol abuse?
      
   7. Where can I get information on Rape or Sexual Abuse?

   

Iowa City

Are there alternatives to the bar scene?

Absolutely. While at times it may seem that Iowa City has nothing but bars, there is usually something else going on. As far as a GLBT alternative, check the calendar to see what's going on. Often there are events at Hancher Auditorium, the BIJOU, or in the theater building that you may not otherwise hear of.
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Is there a Gay Bar?

Yes, sort of. While Iowa City's "gay bar" (The Alley Cat) has changed names and is no longer officially a "gay bar," it remains the unofficial gay bar in the community. This bar is now known as "Studio 13," and is located at 13 S. Linn St., on the alley side of the historic Linn Street Square building, near downtown. Nearby businesses include "The Cottage" on Linn Street and "The Sports Column" on Dubuque Street. There are, however, several gay friendly bars. These include "The Deadwood," "The Cage," and several other establishments.
     Studio 13, like most bars in Iowa City, is open to 19 year olds and up. Drinking age is, of course, 21.
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Are there any groups for GLBTA teenagers?

Yes, United Action for Youth (UAY) has a gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, questioning, and allied (GLBTQA) youth group. It is intended for all youth, ages 13 to 19 regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.
     It meets on Mondays (weekly) at 7:00 - 9:00 p.m.
United Action for Youth, Inc.
410 Iowa Ave.
Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 338-7518
UAYGLBTQA@aol.com

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Are there any pride shops?

Not Really, there are no pure pride shops in the area, however Gypsy Magic in the Old Capitol Mall sells a lot of pride gear.

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The University of Iowa

What is it like being GLBT in the dorms?

One of the biggest concerns for new students is undoubtedly dealing with dorm life. For GLBT students, this can be the most traumatic part of leaving home, but it doesn't have to be. Here are a few tips and some information about GLBT dorm issues.
 

• Don't worry about the showers, they're generally pretty nice. Most have good walls, all have curtains, they're definitely not like the public showers found in locker rooms.
• Some colleges and universities have "gay dorms," for GLBT students, Iowa is not one of them.
• Remember, most of us never have any serious problems with our roommates.
• If you ARE  having a problem with your roommate, or anyone else on your floor, you can always go to your RA for help. Many have taken "Safezone" training and well prepared for such situations
• If your roommate turns out to be homophobic, get on the single room list ASAP! There aren't any guarantees you'll get a new room, but there's no harm in trying. Ask the front desk for details.
• If the single room doesn't work out, look into roommate swapping at semester break. There is always somebody (GLBT or allied) who is looking for a new roommate too.
• If you're looking for a co-ed floor, there aren't many. The only real co-ed floors are the International Floor in Hillcrest and the Performing Arts Floor in Currier, though portions of Currier, Burge, and Hillcrest are "almost" co-ed. In short, its very difficult to get onto a co-ed floor.
• For those of you who are still worried about the shower and bathroom situation, definitely try for a room with its own facilities. They're more expensive, but not much harder to get.

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What should I do if I am harassed for being GLBT?

First off, keep in mind that in Iowa City most of us receive little harassment. Running into a profane drunken frat boy isn't terribly uncommon, but beyond a few passing obscenities on the street you won't usually have much trouble. But, here is what to do if something worse happens:

In the dorms: Should you have harassment problems in your dorm, whether it be with your roommate or someone else, go to your RA first. Particularly for those who have an RA with "Safezone" training, the problem should be fairly easy to resolve right there. If it is NOT and/or your RA doesn't seem to be concerned with resolving the problem, then go to your hall manager (see front desk).

In class: In the unlikely event this happens, go to your TA. Now, unlike an RA, TA's are often not or poorly trained for these situations.

If the TA can't or won't resolve it, go to your professor for help. Should that be futile, go to his/her boss, the department head. That should be the end of it there, but if not...contact us, we should be able to help.

On the street: This one is a little more complicated. In general, if its not serious, try to ignore it. If somebody is looking for a fight though, the police or public safety are really your only resort.

I just want to stress that, in general, harassment is not very common or serious in Iowa City. As long as you use common sense (don't hit on straight people in say, the "Sports Column" bar) and don't go looking for trouble, you'll be okay.
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Are there any groups or events specifically for GLBT Graduate students?

Yes, there are currently two such groups on campus One, Outlaws, is intended for law school students only, while the other, UI Graduate Dykes, is available for all lesbian graduate students.
     As always, the GLBTAU welcomes all UI students, including graduate students.
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Can I major in Queer Studies?

At some Colleges and Universities a program specifically geared for Queer Studies is offered (the University of Minnesota, for example). Iowa does not offer a program specifically in Queer Studies, however it does offer the "Sexuality Studies Program," which includes several courses that cover GLBTA issues, as well as the GLBTA community. Additionally, it offers a broad view of human sexuality, which incorporates well into a variety of career paths. You cannot, however, major in Sexuality Studies, though a certificate is offered. For more information visit the Sexuality Studies Program website.
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What is Safezone?

Safezone is a campus-wide program that is intended to promote the inclusion and acceptance of all GLBT students. The participants of this program volunteer to be visible allies and to help provide resources and support for all members of the University. More information about this program can be found at the UI Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender Staff and Faculty Association's page on Safezone.
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The GLBTAU

Does it cost anything to join the GLBTAU?

No! Joining the GLBTAU is completely free.
     It is a common misconception that we collect membership dues. Unfortunately, this seems to have been caused by our old constitution. At some point in our 35+ year history, the GLBTAU did collect dues, but not anymore.
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Can allies come to GLBTAU meetings?

Yes! Allies are always welcome at any and all GLBTAU events! The intention of the GLBTAU is to promote equality and a sense of belonging to UI students and members of the Iowa City community, regardless of their sexual orientation and/or gender identification.
     More than that, the GLBT cause cannot succeed without the help and support of allies, so please come and feel free to bring friends!
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How can I get involved?

This is an easy one! Either contact us here at the GLBTAU website, or come to any of our events, particularly general meetings. There are a lot of things you can do from planning and preparing dances to answering phones, its up to you.
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If I go to a GLBTAU event, will that "out" me?

For people who are new to the GLBTA community particularly, being "outed" is a serious concern. At most GLBTAU events however, they need not worry. Many events, such as the "Gazebo Gayla" take place at quiet city parks where there are few people around. Others, like general meetings, are on upper floors of the IMU, which is usually quite empty at night. The only event that people who are concerned about being "outed" might want to avoid is the "National Coming Out Day" rally.
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I don't want to be involved just yet, where can I just make some friends?

Any GLBTAU event. General meetings, particularly, are more geared towards people who want to become involved, where as events like dances or parties are completely social. You are definitely not obligated to become involved, if you do not want to be.
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What is the Executive Board?

The Executive Board is basically what runs the GLBTAU. In past years the position of "board member" required that you be elected, however currently it is composed of a group of volunteers. The practical limit to size is ten members, as long as all members have a defined purpose and contribution to the group as a whole.
     In addition, by joining the Executive Board, you become part of a small, closed list serve (this is where e-mails to glbtau@uiowa.edu are sent) and you are typically required to attend extra meetings during the course of the semester to plan events.
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How involved does the GLBTAU get with local politics?

It all depends on the year. In the 2001-2002 UISG election, several candidates came to discuss their platforms at GLBTAU general meetings, in fact one party even had a GLBTAU member on its ticket. The following year however, not a single party made any attempt to contact us. GLBTAU involvement in UISG itself fluctuates similarly. However, in late 2002 the GLBTAU was given a Senator's position within UISG, which has allowed us to maintain a better watch on what goes on within student government.
     As far as Iowa City as a whole, the GLBTAU maintains an occasional presence at City Council and School Board meetings, depending on the topic being discussed.
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Was the name of this group formally GLBTU?

Yes, in late 2001 the GLBTU executive board voted to change the name to the GLBTAU, in the hope that allies would feel more welcome within our group.
     If you look at the History section, you'll see that name changes are a common, sometimes frequent, part of the GLBTAU's past, most often in an effort to help provide a sense of inclusion to all members of the community.
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Resources & Crisis Information

Where can I get tested for an STD?

There are several places in Iowa City where you can be tested for STDs and HIV, They are listed below. However, it is good to note that all students have free access to the Student Health Center. If you are looking specifically for free HIV testing, you should visit ICARE or the IC Free Medical Clinic.

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Where can I get free protection?

Free protection can be found at many locations and events in Iowa City. Virtually all GLBTAU events have a display or table with protection available. Additionally, Student Health and many area resources such as WRAC and the GLBT Resource Center located behind Slater Hall, provide free protection as well.
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Are there counseling or therapy services for GLBT Issues?

Yes, there are several locations in Iowa City where you can attend counseling, therapy sessions, or support groups.

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Where can I get information on Domestic Violence?

The Domestic Violence Intervention Program serves anyone in need of assistance, regardless of gender identification or sexual orientation. It should be noted that this shelter does assist men, however the 24 Hour Safe Shelter is for women only.

DVIP
P.O. Box 3170
Iowa City, IA 52244
(319) 351-1042 [Office]
1-800-373-1043 [24 Hour Crisis Line]

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Where can I go for help with substance abuse?

For general substance abuse (excluding alcohol abuse), there is one major organization, in addition to the UI Hospital.

MECCA Substance Abuse Services
c/o Lisa Stephens, Prevention Specialist
430 Southgate Ave.
Iowa City, IA 52240
(319) 351-4357
 

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Are there GLBT groups specifically for alcohol abuse?

There two GLBT specific alcohol abuse support groups in Iowa City:

Gay Men's Alcoholics Anonymous
Trinity Place
320 E. College St.
P.O. Box 2989
Iowa City, IA 52244
(319) 338-2135
(319) 338-9111
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GLBT Alcoholics Anonymous
Women's Resource and Action Center {WRAC}
130 N. Madison St.
319-335-1486
Every Sunday 5:00 p.m.

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Where can I get information on Rape or Sexual Abuse?

The Rape Victim Advocacy Program (RVAP) is available to all members of the community, and can assist in directing a number of services including police notification and medical care.

Rape Victim Advocacy Program
320 S. Linn St.
Iowa City, IA 52240
Crisis Line (24/7): (319) 335-6000
Business Line: (319) 335-6001
Hours 9-5MF
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