Residential Life

Rainbow Village

Rainbow Village is a Themed Community located on the twelfth floor of Joe West Hall in University Housing. The community is geared to provide a specifically LGBTQQIA (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Questioning, Intersex, and Ally) friendly atmosphere for students to live and interact.

The community promotes understanding about sexual orientation, gender, and other identities to enhance students' leadership skills and multicultural awareness. Rainbow Village provides an opportunity for students to connect with student groups and campus resources, such as the PRIDE CenterGender Equity Center and the MOSIAC Cross-Cultural Center.

Through a variety of programs and activities, Rainbow Village offers a dynamic experience for students wishing to build a stronger support and community system. Any student may request gender inclusive housing. Placement priority will be given to students who require accommodations based on their gender identity or gender expression.

Learning Outcomes

  • Residents will explore sexual/gender identity development and gain a better understanding of their own sexual/gender identity.
  • Residents will gain knowledge about Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Intersex issues and resources, as well as how to utilize them.
  • Residents will build strong peer relationships and support systems within Rainbow Village, San Jose State University, and the San Jose community.

Programs and Events

  • Exposure to campus and community resources and events, such as the San Jose State University PRIDE CenterThe Youth SpaceBilly DeFrank LGBT Community Center.
  • Attend programs on issues such as: identity development, legal issues, support services, advocacy.
  • Participate actively in National Coming Out Day, Trans week, and other educational/awareness activities.
  • Opportunity to be involved in the planning and implementation of campus wide programs such as Breaking the Silence Week, Enough is Enough Week, and Love Does Not Discriminate.
  • Interact with SJSU Faculty and Staff through socials, workshops, and presentations in Rainbow Village.
  • Enroll in LGBT Studies/Muse courses.
  • Interact with SJSU Faculty and Staff through socials, workshops, and presentations in Rainbow Village.

Sign Up for Rainbow Village