College Works to Create Safety Zones for LGBTQ Students
Chad Miller
Issue date: 11/2/09 Section: News
On October 15, the College sponsored a workshop to increase awareness for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Questioning (LGBTQ) students and staff at RWC.
Facilitator Tamika Odum discussed with the group issues such as the problem LGBTQ students and staff face of not being able to freely express opinions and values they hold dear. Additionally, she pointed out the correct "Inclusive language" to use, and the need for "Safety zones" was reaffirmed by survey results depicting data such as 75 percent of responding faculty and students feel that UC's campus is homophobic.
The workshop allowed participants to learn about problems faced by LGBTQ students, such as fear of safety and fear of losing family support. An "Ally" activity took place, in which participants discussed student situations and LGBTQ community work.
As a follow-up to this training, information on How to Be An Ally, Supportive Places of Worship, LGBTQ Campus and Community Resources will be provided on the RWC campus for students, faculty, and staff, according to Helen Kegler, Director of the RWC Center for Multicultural Affairs.
Facilitator Tamika Odum discussed with the group issues such as the problem LGBTQ students and staff face of not being able to freely express opinions and values they hold dear. Additionally, she pointed out the correct "Inclusive language" to use, and the need for "Safety zones" was reaffirmed by survey results depicting data such as 75 percent of responding faculty and students feel that UC's campus is homophobic.
The workshop allowed participants to learn about problems faced by LGBTQ students, such as fear of safety and fear of losing family support. An "Ally" activity took place, in which participants discussed student situations and LGBTQ community work.
As a follow-up to this training, information on How to Be An Ally, Supportive Places of Worship, LGBTQ Campus and Community Resources will be provided on the RWC campus for students, faculty, and staff, according to Helen Kegler, Director of the RWC Center for Multicultural Affairs.
Be the first to comment on this story