About Us

CMQ+ (formerly Allies Grad) serves LGBTQIA+ graduate students at Carnegie Mellon University, though staff and/or allies are always welcome at our events. The + denotes allies, non-identifying, HIV+ and other s–open to interpretation and an avowal of both our inclusivity and focus on queer identifying people at CMU. We aim to help create an affirming and rewarding social and intellectual environment for this community, as well as tangible support for graduate students at Carnegie Mellon of all gender identities and sexual orientations. To accomplish these goals, CMQ+ works alone and with affiliated university groups to: A. Act as an advocate to the University community for support of and issues relevant to individuals of all gender identities and sexual orientations. Work to overcome oppression and insensitivity on the basis of gender identity and sexual orientation. B. Provide access for members of the University community to "safe places and safe people": individuals and forums for confidential discussion, support, and information. C. Promote educational and professional development opportunities for LGBTQIA+ students, staff, and faculty, as well as parents and alumni. D. Help find funding opportunities for CMQ+ and its members to attend conferences, workshops, and events. E. Develop a broad appreciation for diversity and inclusiveness, as articulated in the Statement of Assurance, through promoting understanding of all gender identities and sexual orientations. Increase the awareness of discrimination and harassment on the basis of gender identity and sexual orientation in all contexts, personal, professional, and academic. F. Provide all students, faculty, and staff with an avenue to demonstrate their support of individuals of all gender identities and sexual orientations. G. Develop a professional network of alumni and current students in advancing these goals at CMU.