You don't have to be an expert. You don't have to be a counselor. You just have to be there.
The Allies Safe Zone program is a network of students, faculty & staff who are supportive of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender people, and of anyone dealing with sexual orientation or gender identity issues. Allies provide a supportive space, a listening ear, and helpful resources and referrals. You will recognize Allies by the placard outside their office or residence hall room, or by finding their name on our web site directory.
Every Ally attends a 3-hour training to learn about the benefits and responsibilities of being an Ally. All Allies sign a contract to provide supportive resources before they hang their placard. Some Allies also attend an additional Trans Allies 3-hour seminar to learn how to be better allies to transgender, intersex, and gender nonconforming people.
Allies Responsibilities
- An Ally is... Visible Support, Safe Zone, Role Model, and Someone who combats heterosexism, biphobia, and transphobia.
- An Ally can be... An Activist, Speaker, or Educator.
- An Ally is not... An Expert on issues, Counselor. nor Spokeperson for all.
Allies Contract
Visible
- I hereby agree to provide a "safe zone" for anyone dealing with sexual orientation or gender identity issues. Although I am not an "expert" on lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender issues, I will provide affirming resources and referrals to the best of my ability.
- I am committed to educating myself and others about oppression, heterosexism, biphobia, transphobia, and homophobia; and to combating it on a personal level.
- I am committed to working toward providing a safe, confidential support network for members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender community.
- I am committed to treating everyone with the dignity and respect they are entitled to as human beings.
Support