OutCenter Southwest Michigan
@outcenter.bsky.social
Supporting & advocating for LGBTQ+ people & allies in southwest Michigan. Operating hours: 9-5, in-person/virtual meetings by appointment. 🏳️🌈🏳️⚧️ https://outcenter.org/
White supremacy isn't just torches and hoods. It's a sophisticated political system that's been targeting our communities for generations. In this Protocol video, Willow breaks down how white supremacy works, from dog whistles to violence inspired by replacement theory.
WATCH: youtu.be/9ld39yuiQy4
WATCH: youtu.be/9ld39yuiQy4
Identifying and Resisting White Supremacy
YouTube video by OutCenter Southwest Michigan
youtu.be
October 3, 2025 at 2:11 AM
White supremacy isn't just torches and hoods. It's a sophisticated political system that's been targeting our communities for generations. In this Protocol video, Willow breaks down how white supremacy works, from dog whistles to violence inspired by replacement theory.
WATCH: youtu.be/9ld39yuiQy4
WATCH: youtu.be/9ld39yuiQy4
In this video from our Protocol for an Inclusive Future, join Willow from OutCenter as we dive deep into toxic masculinity. Our vision is liberation for people of all genders through authentic relationships built on partnership rather than domination.
WATCH: youtu.be/MPxArLAPc_o
WATCH: youtu.be/MPxArLAPc_o
Dismantling Toxic Masculinity
YouTube video by OutCenter Southwest Michigan
youtu.be
September 5, 2025 at 7:32 PM
In this video from our Protocol for an Inclusive Future, join Willow from OutCenter as we dive deep into toxic masculinity. Our vision is liberation for people of all genders through authentic relationships built on partnership rather than domination.
WATCH: youtu.be/MPxArLAPc_o
WATCH: youtu.be/MPxArLAPc_o
In this episode of No Silly Questions, Gerik from OutCenter discusses what GSAs are and their purpose. Students have the right to form LGBTQ+ student groups in schools, and teachers and educational professionals can support these students through advocacy & organization.
WATCH: youtu.be/ZWOfiER82Ps
WATCH: youtu.be/ZWOfiER82Ps
What is a GSA?
YouTube video by OutCenter Southwest Michigan
youtu.be
August 29, 2025 at 4:20 PM
In this episode of No Silly Questions, Gerik from OutCenter discusses what GSAs are and their purpose. Students have the right to form LGBTQ+ student groups in schools, and teachers and educational professionals can support these students through advocacy & organization.
WATCH: youtu.be/ZWOfiER82Ps
WATCH: youtu.be/ZWOfiER82Ps
Learn about the rising issue of Christian Nationalism in the US. We trace the historical roots into modern evangelical politics that transformed faith communities into voting blocs centered around a militant, patriarchal vision of faith.
Understanding and Undoing Christian Nationalism
YouTube video by OutCenter Southwest Michigan
youtu.be
August 20, 2025 at 8:28 PM
Learn about the rising issue of Christian Nationalism in the US. We trace the historical roots into modern evangelical politics that transformed faith communities into voting blocs centered around a militant, patriarchal vision of faith.
Trans kids are being abandoned by politicians on all sides, but why? In this episode of No Silly Questions, Willow dives into the real reasons behind the attacks on trans youth in sports. We'll talk about the "Overton Window" and break down the most common "excuses" used to justify discrimination.
Why are Civil Rights for Trans Kids being Abandoned?
YouTube video by OutCenter Southwest Michigan
youtu.be
August 15, 2025 at 6:19 PM
Trans kids are being abandoned by politicians on all sides, but why? In this episode of No Silly Questions, Willow dives into the real reasons behind the attacks on trans youth in sports. We'll talk about the "Overton Window" and break down the most common "excuses" used to justify discrimination.
In this episode of No Silly Questions, Willow explores the rich and complex history of the term “queer,” and how it was reclaimed by the LGBTQ community. It’s become a broad, inclusive term used to describe sexual orientation, gender identity, and even culture and media.
youtu.be/rp8jh9u0KRU
youtu.be/rp8jh9u0KRU
What Does the Word “Queer” Mean?
YouTube video by OutCenter Southwest Michigan
youtu.be
August 8, 2025 at 7:52 PM
In this episode of No Silly Questions, Willow explores the rich and complex history of the term “queer,” and how it was reclaimed by the LGBTQ community. It’s become a broad, inclusive term used to describe sexual orientation, gender identity, and even culture and media.
youtu.be/rp8jh9u0KRU
youtu.be/rp8jh9u0KRU
In today’s No Silly Questions episode, Willow talks about what it means to be an ally. A real, active allyship is not about posturing or performing, it’s about real action and advocacy — even if it’s uncomfortable or difficult. youtu.be/Kfp8jQ_MdI4
How to Be an Ally
YouTube video by OutCenter Southwest Michigan
youtu.be
July 17, 2025 at 2:18 PM
In today’s No Silly Questions episode, Willow talks about what it means to be an ally. A real, active allyship is not about posturing or performing, it’s about real action and advocacy — even if it’s uncomfortable or difficult. youtu.be/Kfp8jQ_MdI4
Willow talks about drag and its legacy of art and activism. Drag is a transformative performance art that defies gender norms through exaggerated costumes, makeup, and personas.
WATCH: youtu.be/PBQ-UxUEm0k
WATCH: youtu.be/PBQ-UxUEm0k
What is Drag All About?
YouTube video by OutCenter Southwest Michigan
youtu.be
May 23, 2025 at 9:01 PM
Willow talks about drag and its legacy of art and activism. Drag is a transformative performance art that defies gender norms through exaggerated costumes, makeup, and personas.
WATCH: youtu.be/PBQ-UxUEm0k
WATCH: youtu.be/PBQ-UxUEm0k
In today’s No Silly Questions episode, Willow discusses Pride, which blends celebration and confrontation — standing against anti-LGBT hate. Showing up isn’t just about parades; it’s a declaration that LGBTQ+ lives matter.
WATCH: youtu.be/aOeOlvXc-Kw
WATCH: youtu.be/aOeOlvXc-Kw
What is Pride Month All About?
YouTube video by OutCenter Southwest Michigan
youtu.be
May 16, 2025 at 4:07 PM
In today’s No Silly Questions episode, Willow discusses Pride, which blends celebration and confrontation — standing against anti-LGBT hate. Showing up isn’t just about parades; it’s a declaration that LGBTQ+ lives matter.
WATCH: youtu.be/aOeOlvXc-Kw
WATCH: youtu.be/aOeOlvXc-Kw
this episode of No Silly Questions, Gerik outlines practical strategies for educators to support LGBTQ+ students. Learn how to create a safe classroom environment here!
WATCH: www.youtube.com/watch?v=UcCV...
WATCH: www.youtube.com/watch?v=UcCV...
How to be an Ally as a Teacher
YouTube video by OutCenter Southwest Michigan
www.youtube.com
May 5, 2025 at 7:44 PM
this episode of No Silly Questions, Gerik outlines practical strategies for educators to support LGBTQ+ students. Learn how to create a safe classroom environment here!
WATCH: www.youtube.com/watch?v=UcCV...
WATCH: www.youtube.com/watch?v=UcCV...
For many people, understanding their own sexuality and gender identity doesn’t happen all at once. In this video, Willow unpacks introspection, self-disclosure, and common myths about discovering if you're a member of the LGBTQ+ community.
WATCH: youtu.be/zchfyHgmkYo
WATCH: youtu.be/zchfyHgmkYo
How Do You Know If You’re LGBTQ+?
YouTube video by OutCenter Southwest Michigan
youtu.be
April 19, 2025 at 8:32 PM
For many people, understanding their own sexuality and gender identity doesn’t happen all at once. In this video, Willow unpacks introspection, self-disclosure, and common myths about discovering if you're a member of the LGBTQ+ community.
WATCH: youtu.be/zchfyHgmkYo
WATCH: youtu.be/zchfyHgmkYo
In this video, Gerik talks about the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act (ELCRA), a Michigan anti-discrimination law which was expanded in 2023 to prohibit discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity.
WATCH: youtu.be/-oSSqtmeTQ8
WATCH: youtu.be/-oSSqtmeTQ8
What is the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act (ELCRA)?
YouTube video by OutCenter Southwest Michigan
youtu.be
April 16, 2025 at 7:11 PM
In this video, Gerik talks about the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act (ELCRA), a Michigan anti-discrimination law which was expanded in 2023 to prohibit discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity.
WATCH: youtu.be/-oSSqtmeTQ8
WATCH: youtu.be/-oSSqtmeTQ8
In this video, Willow invites listeners to see how everyday choices — like individual grains of sand — come together to shape a brighter future.
WATCH: www.youtube.com/watch?v=PZA1...
WATCH: www.youtube.com/watch?v=PZA1...
Small Actions Build a Brighter Future
YouTube video by OutCenter Southwest Michigan
www.youtube.com
April 11, 2025 at 10:52 PM
In this video, Willow invites listeners to see how everyday choices — like individual grains of sand — come together to shape a brighter future.
WATCH: www.youtube.com/watch?v=PZA1...
WATCH: www.youtube.com/watch?v=PZA1...
Why do Pride flags exist? Because visibility matters. These bold designs represent real people and real identities across the LGBTQ+ community. In No Silly Questions, Willow explores 8 of the most searched-for Pride flags and breaks down what each means.
WATCH: www.youtube.com/watch?v=q9hq...
WATCH: www.youtube.com/watch?v=q9hq...
What do the Pride Flags Mean?
YouTube video by OutCenter Southwest Michigan
www.youtube.com
April 4, 2025 at 8:41 PM
Why do Pride flags exist? Because visibility matters. These bold designs represent real people and real identities across the LGBTQ+ community. In No Silly Questions, Willow explores 8 of the most searched-for Pride flags and breaks down what each means.
WATCH: www.youtube.com/watch?v=q9hq...
WATCH: www.youtube.com/watch?v=q9hq...
Do you do advocacy or direct action, and want to make sure your communication with co-organizers and community members is secure? Then watch our latest video where Gerik walks through using Signal, the encrypted private messaging platform!
WATCH: www.youtube.com/watch?v=489z...
WATCH: www.youtube.com/watch?v=489z...
How to: Use Signal for Secure Messaging
YouTube video by OutCenter Southwest Michigan
www.youtube.com
March 31, 2025 at 3:53 PM
Do you do advocacy or direct action, and want to make sure your communication with co-organizers and community members is secure? Then watch our latest video where Gerik walks through using Signal, the encrypted private messaging platform!
WATCH: www.youtube.com/watch?v=489z...
WATCH: www.youtube.com/watch?v=489z...
In this Advocate Oasis video, MaryJo from shares her thoughts on the importance of taking breaks and finding moments of peace amidst life’s challenges.
WATCH: www.youtube.com/watch?v=yScO...
WATCH: www.youtube.com/watch?v=yScO...
Advocate Oasis - Planting Seeds of Rest
YouTube video by OutCenter Southwest Michigan
www.youtube.com
March 28, 2025 at 4:14 PM
In this Advocate Oasis video, MaryJo from shares her thoughts on the importance of taking breaks and finding moments of peace amidst life’s challenges.
WATCH: www.youtube.com/watch?v=yScO...
WATCH: www.youtube.com/watch?v=yScO...
Reposted by OutCenter Southwest Michigan
“Where there is vagueness, where there is a lack of transparency, there's the potential for discriminatory action."
@outcenter.bsky.social
@outcenter.bsky.social
The Benton Harbor city manager wants only "government related" events at a downtown park
Under a proposed policy change, only "government related" events could be held at City Center Park in Benton Harbor, but one local group said it’s not clear what that means.
www.wmuk.org
March 18, 2025 at 1:04 PM
“Where there is vagueness, where there is a lack of transparency, there's the potential for discriminatory action."
@outcenter.bsky.social
@outcenter.bsky.social
Gender identity and sexual orientation can sometimes be confused, but they refer to two distinct aspects of a person’s experience. This video breaks down the key differences!
WATCH: www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ar06...
WATCH: www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ar06...
Understanding Gender Identity and Sexual Orientation
YouTube video by OutCenter Southwest Michigan
www.youtube.com
March 19, 2025 at 4:00 PM
Gender identity and sexual orientation can sometimes be confused, but they refer to two distinct aspects of a person’s experience. This video breaks down the key differences!
WATCH: www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ar06...
WATCH: www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ar06...
In this Advocate Oasis video, Gerik discuss the importance of practicing mindfulness to process our experiences and build resilience. To practice this, consider taking time to walk outside, clear your mind, and connect with nature.
WATCH: youtube.com/shorts/MEcGE...
WATCH: youtube.com/shorts/MEcGE...
Peaceful Pathways: Embracing Calm in a Chaotic World
YouTube video by OutCenter Southwest Michigan
youtube.com
March 16, 2025 at 6:50 PM
In this Advocate Oasis video, Gerik discuss the importance of practicing mindfulness to process our experiences and build resilience. To practice this, consider taking time to walk outside, clear your mind, and connect with nature.
WATCH: youtube.com/shorts/MEcGE...
WATCH: youtube.com/shorts/MEcGE...
We delve into the importance of using correct personal pronouns for those we interact with. Gerik explains what pronouns are, including the use of "they/them," and highlights how pronouns play a vital role in respecting people's identities.
WATCH: www.youtube.com/watch?v=C6d2...
WATCH: www.youtube.com/watch?v=C6d2...
What are Personal Pronouns?
YouTube video by OutCenter Southwest Michigan
www.youtube.com
March 14, 2025 at 3:59 PM
We delve into the importance of using correct personal pronouns for those we interact with. Gerik explains what pronouns are, including the use of "they/them," and highlights how pronouns play a vital role in respecting people's identities.
WATCH: www.youtube.com/watch?v=C6d2...
WATCH: www.youtube.com/watch?v=C6d2...
Sex and gender: how are they different? Learn how sex is biologically assigned based on physical traits, and how gender is an identity shaped by culture, history, and personal expression.
WATCH: youtu.be/2TnMtSczzA0
WATCH: youtu.be/2TnMtSczzA0
What's the Difference Between Sex and Gender?
YouTube video by OutCenter Southwest Michigan
youtu.be
March 7, 2025 at 10:35 PM
Sex and gender: how are they different? Learn how sex is biologically assigned based on physical traits, and how gender is an identity shaped by culture, history, and personal expression.
WATCH: youtu.be/2TnMtSczzA0
WATCH: youtu.be/2TnMtSczzA0
In this video, Willow talks about both self-care and communal care as forms of resistance against hyper-individualistic and so-called "efficiency"-driven ideologies. It's important to in rest and engage in "useless" activities that foster human connection.
WATCH: www.youtube.com/watch?v=GQu4...
WATCH: www.youtube.com/watch?v=GQu4...
On Restful Resistance - Advocate Oasis
YouTube video by OutCenter Southwest Michigan
www.youtube.com
March 2, 2025 at 2:20 PM
In this video, Willow talks about both self-care and communal care as forms of resistance against hyper-individualistic and so-called "efficiency"-driven ideologies. It's important to in rest and engage in "useless" activities that foster human connection.
WATCH: www.youtube.com/watch?v=GQu4...
WATCH: www.youtube.com/watch?v=GQu4...
MaryJo answers the question, "what can I do?" It's a question many of us are asking in this time of policy and political upheaval. MaryJo provides three helpful plans of action that you can follow today!
WATCH: youtu.be/HtZPBPC33MA
WATCH: youtu.be/HtZPBPC33MA
What can I do to take action? - No Silly Questions
YouTube video by OutCenter Southwest Michigan
youtu.be
March 1, 2025 at 2:42 PM
MaryJo answers the question, "what can I do?" It's a question many of us are asking in this time of policy and political upheaval. MaryJo provides three helpful plans of action that you can follow today!
WATCH: youtu.be/HtZPBPC33MA
WATCH: youtu.be/HtZPBPC33MA
Gerik walks through our new Protocol for an Inclusive Future resources — these are all about making public comments! Learn about what goes into sharing your voice at a town hall, city, or school board meeting.
WATCH: youtu.be/Gz6DyKnp1L0
DOWNLOAD RESOURCES: www.outcenter.org/protocol
WATCH: youtu.be/Gz6DyKnp1L0
DOWNLOAD RESOURCES: www.outcenter.org/protocol
How To: Attend Public Meetings and Share Your Voice
YouTube video by OutCenter Southwest Michigan
youtu.be
February 28, 2025 at 6:18 PM
Gerik walks through our new Protocol for an Inclusive Future resources — these are all about making public comments! Learn about what goes into sharing your voice at a town hall, city, or school board meeting.
WATCH: youtu.be/Gz6DyKnp1L0
DOWNLOAD RESOURCES: www.outcenter.org/protocol
WATCH: youtu.be/Gz6DyKnp1L0
DOWNLOAD RESOURCES: www.outcenter.org/protocol
OutCenter Southwest Michigan Responds to Corewell Health Reinstatement of Gender-Affirming Care for New LGBTQ+ Youth Patients: "While we acknowledge Corewell’s reinstatement of care, the initial pause caused harm..." Read the full press release: www.outcenter.org/articles/out...
OutCenter Southwest Michigan Responds to Corewell Health Reinstatement of Gender-Affirming Care for New LGBTQ+ Youth Patients — OutCenter
Benton Harbor, Michigan — On February 8th, Corewell Health announced a policy to pause gender-affirming care to new patients under 19 years old. OutCenter Southwest Michigan confirmed on February 12t...
www.outcenter.org
February 13, 2025 at 11:06 PM
OutCenter Southwest Michigan Responds to Corewell Health Reinstatement of Gender-Affirming Care for New LGBTQ+ Youth Patients: "While we acknowledge Corewell’s reinstatement of care, the initial pause caused harm..." Read the full press release: www.outcenter.org/articles/out...