UNE Safe Space
UNE Safe Space - FAQs
What is UNE Safe Space?
Why is UNE Safe Space important?
How do students find a Safe Space Member?
Who should take part in the Safe Space Program?
Why should you take part in the Safe Space program?
Will a sign on your door make people think you are gay, lesbian, or bisexual?
How do faculty/staff/students become UNE Safe Space Trained?
What are the Learning Outcomes in a UNE Safe Space Training?
UNE Safe Space is a 2-3 hour training program that includes self-reflective exercises, discussion, and interactive activities to help you understand the challenges that many lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgendered persons experience. After your training you will receive a Safe Space sign to place on your door to let the community know that your area is a “Safe Space” to be open about themselves without fear of criticism or hatred.
Why is UNE Safe Space important?
Surveys indicate that a majority of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning (LGBTQ) students who do not feel safe at school and are likely to skip class or even days of school out of fear for personal safety. Students who can identify a supportive faculty/staff member or student group are more likely to feel a sense of belonging at their school than those who cannot. Safe Space programs increase the visible presence of student and adult allies who can help to shape a school culture that is accepting of all people, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, or any other difference.
How do students find a Safe Space Member?
Look for the following Safe Space sign displayed on doors or office spaces:
This logo indicates that the individual is:
- Someone who will be understanding, supportive, and trustworthy if a LGBTQ student or colleague needs help, advice, or someone to listen;
- Someone who avoids heterosexist assumptions;
- Someone who believes that our campus is enriched by the diversity of LGBTQ people;
- Someone who provides a safe, comfortable, & confidential environment.
Who should take part in the Safe Space Program?
UNE faculty, staff and student leaders who wish to show support of LGBTQ individuals and issues should consider being trained in UNE Safe Space. Staff and LGBT Advisors from the Office of Multicultural Affairs & Diversity offer the 2-3 hour training periodically or upon request from a particular department or group.
Why should you take part in the Safe Space program?
- Everyone deserves to learn/work in an environment that’s supportive and friendly, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity/expression.
- Anti—LGBTQ bias affects school performance, school experience, and mental & emotional health of the students who experience it.
- Students may experience bias or oppression based on real or perceived assumptions about their sexuality/gender identity. Change starts with a grassroots effort by a group that is willing to start positive changes through support, education, and publicity.
- Another reason to take part is the fact that homophobia and transphobia hurt us all. They discourage diversity, encourage hurtful behaviors, and put limits on our relationships and roles in the campus community.
- Being a part of the Safe Space program will give you an opportunity to learn about yourself and others, and will help you make your community a better place for everybody.
Source: GLSEN Safe Space Guide
Will a sign on your door make people think you are gay, lesbian, or bisexual?
One of the goals of this program is to make that question irrelevant. Straight allies are being encouraged to take up these issues and they are doing so in greater and more visible numbers. True, some people still assume that those who talk supportively of sexual diversity are they themselves lesbian, gay, or bisexual. This program asks people to think about why such labels make people uneasy. Being thought “different” is still a big deal for many, evoking discomfort and fear. The Safe Space program wants to challenge that and create a environment that promotes the safety and well-being of all individuals.
How do faculty/staff/students become UNE Safe Place Trained?
Contact the Office of Multicultural Affairs and Diversity at rlongoria@une.edu or at 207-602-2826 to schedule a Safe Space training for your group or to find out when the next training session will be held.
What are the Learning Outcomes in a UNE Safe Space Training?
- Awareness - Gain insights into the lives and experiences of LGBTQ people and self
- Knowledge - Gain knowledge on facts relating to LGBTQ issues
- Action - Bring awareness of self and others’ experiences together with knowledge and support to create positive change