By Jason Warren/reporter
The Safe Space program trained participants how to advocate for the LBGTQ community Sept. 22 on NE Campus.
The program gives strategies for providing LGBTQ students a safe and supportive environment regardless of sexual orientation.
Safe Space Committee members Andee Rodriguez and Crimson Hite presented information about terms and symbols associated with the LGBTQ population and the history of those terms.
They explained how terms such as “queer” or “transvestite” were still rejected by some in the community because of the negative history tied to them.
“Many members of the LGBTQ community may be uncomfortable with the term ‘queer’ since it was still a slur used against them [back then],” Hite said.
Rodriguez talked about how privilege affects members of the LGBTQ community.
“[Some] may look cisgender and are therefore less subject to oppression than an individual who appears more [gender] nonconforming,” he said.
Because of underrepresentation and mistreatment of LGBTQ individuals, the Safe Space program desires to include and meet the needs of LGBTQ students.
“All LGBTQ students on campus need resources,” said Rodriguez who launched the Pride Club Sept. 12 on NE Campus. All members of the LGBTQ community, allies and advocates may join.
The program emphasizes efficient strategies for providing LGBTQ students a safe and supportive environment, regardless of sexual orientation.
