Abstract
ABSTRACT
This research aimed to assess students’ perception of the campus climate as it relates to issues of gender identity, gender expression, and sexual orientation at a community college in Hawai'i. Despite LGBTQ+ individuals' historical acceptance in Hawai'i, little research explores their current experiences within higher education, specifically their perception of campus climate. Guiding the research is queer theory, which acknowledges the fluidity and interconnectedness of gender and sexual identities. This framework challenges assumptions of heteronormativity, aligning with the Hawaiian concept of māhū, where individuals do not fit neatly into fixed categories of gender or sexual orientation. The study utilizes a criterion-based survey distributed to traditionally aged students employing a quantitative approach. The study investigates the hypothesized differences in experiences between these groups using data on demographics, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, and perceived campus climate.
The findings reveal significant disparities in reported campus climate, with LGBTQ+ and transgender students feeling less included and supported. These findings highlight areas for improvement, such as addressing faculty bias, strengthening harassment prevention measures, and promoting more inclusive campus events. Ultimately, the study recommends empowering college administrators to create a more welcoming and equitable learning environment for all students by tackling these identified weaknesses in current policies and practices.
Keywords: LGBTQ+, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, campus climate, community college, Hawai'i, queer theory, māhū
