Frequently Asked Questions
What does “gender relations” mean? -top-
"Gender relations" refers to how men and women interact and communicate with members of the other sex and people of a different sexual orientation. The GRC promotes healthy gender relations through education and facilitating dialogue among students.
What is the difference between the GRC, Gender Studies, and the Gender Issues Committee? -top-
Although all of these entities deal with similar topics, each has a unique mission and place within the University. The Gender Relations Center (GRC) is a department within Student Affairs, Gender Studies is an academic department of the College of Arts and Letters, and the Gender Issues Committee exists within Student Government.
Why does Notre Dame have a "Gender Relations Center" instead of a "Women’s Center"? -top-
Because the GRC recognizes that women and men must work together to improve relationships on campus, the name of the center was meant to reflect the necessity of that collaboration. By using the term "gender relations" the GRC wants to communicate that one gender does not exist in a vacuum, one gender is not responsible for all that divides women and men on campus, and one gender should not be solely responsible for social changes of campus culture. By starting challenging dialogue between women and men, the GRC hopes that both genders can become allies for social change and role models for gender relations at Notre Dame.
What programs does the GRC offer? -top-
The GRC offers three signature programs (FIRE Forums, SITins, and GRAND Central Cinema) on a variety of gender related topics (Dating and Relating, Heterosexism, and many more). We are also involved in many initiatives throughout the year. For more information and to see our schedule of events, click here.
How can I request a program or training for my organization, residence hall, or club? -top-
Program request forms are sent out to residence halls and many other University organizations at the beginning of each semester. You can also contact the GRC directly at 631-2604 to arrange a program or training opportunity. For more information, see programs or training.
Does the GRC provide counseling on gender related issues? -top-
No, we do not directly counsel individuals on gender related issues. The GRC does provide resources and can help direct you to organizations that can assist you. If you would like to speak with a trained professional counselor, call or visit the University Counseling Center.
How can I get involved in the GRC? -top-
Some simple ways to get involved in the GRC are to stop by and visit our student study space in 311 LaFortune and chat with other students or browse our resources, request or attend a GRC program, or become a peer educator and help educate others about gender issues. If you are interested in becoming a peer educator (FIRE Starter), please click here.
What is the GRC doing to further gender relations in general on campus? -top-
The GRC educates and facilitates dialogue on gender related issues through signature programs and initiatives. We also provide resources, training, and coordinate with and support student clubs and organizations.
