The Safe Zone Project
You can recognize a Safe Zone ally who displays the above symbol.
What is the Safe Zone Project?
The Safe Zone Project is a campus-wide program that offers a visible message of inclusion, acceptance and support to lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered (LGBT) people in the University community. Through this program, participants attend a three-hour educational workshop regarding the LGBT experience and campus/community resources. After completing this workshop, participants receive a SAFE Zone symbol that is displayed in their work/living space.
Purpose of the Safe Zone Project
The purpose of the Safe Zone Project is to identify members of the University community who will model support, acceptance and inclusion of LGBT people. Participants in this program will volunteer to be visible allies and be provided training to be effective resource people for their workplace and classroom.
The Safe Zone Project is open to all staff, faculty and students who are committed to making the University of Iowa a safe environment for ALL of its members, including LGBT persons.
Why do we need a Safe Zone Project?
- Because the University's Human Rights Policy states, "that in no aspect
of its programs shall there be differences in the treatment of persons
because of race, creed, color, national origin, age, sex, disability,
sexual orientation, gender identity, and any other classification
that deprive a person of consideration as an individual, and that equal
opportunity and access to facilities shall be available to all."
- In a 1993 University of Iowa study, forty percent of LGBT staff/faculty
members experienced harassment or discrimination on campus.
- In a study of college campuses, over two thirds of gay and lesbian college students have reported experiences of harassment and violence while at college. (Norris, 1992)
Participant Guidelines
- Attend one three-hour training session that covers the following Safe Zone expectations:
- Make appropriate referrals to community and University resources.
- Promote the acceptance of LGBT persons in the classroom and workplace.
- Respect the confidentiality of individuals seeking assistance.
- Advocate for adherence to the University's Human Rights Policy.
- Become aware of the presence of LGBT students and colleagues and be willing to engage in genuine dialogue and interaction.
- Comfortably use inclusive language, avoid stereotypes and do not assume everyone is heterosexual.
- Visibly display the Safe Zone symbol.
- Serve as a resource for other University staff, faculty and students who have questions.
Click here to display a form you can print, fill out and send in to participate in the Safe Zone Project.
Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to attend all University of Iowa sponsored events. If you are a person with a disability who requires an accommodation in order to participate in this program, please contact the LGBT Resource and Referral Line in advance at 335-1965 (voice) or 335-0697 (text).
Sponsored by The University of Iowa Lesbian/Gay/Bisexual/Transgender Staff and Faculty Association, The University of Iowa Sexuality Studies Program, and the University of Iowa Office of Equal Opportunity and Diversity.
Norris, W.P. (1992) Liberal attitudes and homophobic acts: The paradoxes of homosexual experience in a liberal institution. Journal of Homosexuality, 22, 91-120.