GLBT Safe Space
Human Relations Statement on Campus Climate for Civility and Human Dignity
MSU recognizes its responsibility to foster an atmosphere of respect understanding and goodwill among all individuals and groups, with special sensitivity to those most likely to be subjected to disrespect, abuse and misunderstanding because of their race, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age or disabling condition. The goal is to create an unbiased community where all individuals feel free to express themselves in ways that are appropriate in a multi-ethnic and multi-cultural society, and to pursue their work and study in an atmosphere which values diversity.
- from the MSU Student Handbook
MSU Statement on Equal Opportunity for Students:
MSU is committed to the principle of student access to campus benefits and services (including, but not limited to, admission, residence life, financial aid, athletics, course offerings, scholarships, student employment, social and recreational programs) without regard to race, creed, color, national origin, gender, age, affectional or sexual orientation, or disabilities (not interfering with academic performance).
- from the President's Statement on Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action, Sexual Harassment, and Tolerance.
Policy on Sexual Harassment
Sexual Harassment is defined as any unwelcome sexual conduct, whether the behavior is verbal or physical in nature, regardless of the peer, supervisory, or other relationship between the parties, and regardless of whether the manifestation of the harassment is requests for sexual favors, sexist remarks, or behaviors that denigrates a person because of the person’s sex or sexual orientation. The Board of Trustees reaffirms its commitment to assure that the University environment will be free of sexual harassment...and that all steps be taken in accordance with State and Federal laws contact the Vice President for Student Development and Campus Life, 655-4311
- from the MSU Student Handbook
The GLBT Safe Space Program identifies offices of MSU faculty and staff that are safe places for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people. Such offices are identified with a decal. The decal has a green circle with two triangles in the center, one pink and one in black. It reads GLBT Safe Place. Some of the people who display the decal are lesbian or gay, while others are supportive of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender individuals.
What is Safe Space?
The GLBT decal signifies the displayer’s willingness to be supportive of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people. LGB Safe Space Programs have been established at various universities throughout the country. The intended message of the symbol is that the person displaying this decal is one who will be non-judgmental, understanding and trustworthy should anyone need help, advice or conversation.
Why might somone seek out a Safe Space?
Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people may face instances of homophobic harassment on campus or in their communities and may wish to speak with a supportive person about this. Gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people may be confused about sexual orientation or identity or just want to speak to someone about life issues they face due to their sexual and affectional orientation. Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people may have fears about coming out and wish to speak with someone about those concerns. Individuals may not have accurate information about the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender communities or any role models that meet their needs as a gay, lesbian or bisexual people. The basic assumption of the program is a belief that people can be resources for each other.
What might I expect if I visit a Safe Space?
The most important thing is that you will encounter a person you can talk to who is non-judgmental, understanding and trustworthy. Good listening and support can be expected. The creation of a sense of safety can contribute to a sharing of feelings and learning about lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people. Your discussion will be confidential. If you’re speaking about a problem you’ve encountered at MSU you can expect a person in a Safe Space to help you find out what to do about that problem. If needed, you can obtain names of resources on campus and in the community for emotional support, legal advice, health services and social contact, and information about organizations in the lesbian, gay, bisexual, bisexual and transgender communities.
What should I not expect if I visit a Safe Space?
The individuals whose office you are visiting will not be your counselor. There will be no pressure to take action or change your life or lifestyle. There will just be support.
How was the GLBT Safe Space Program started?
The GLBT Safe Space Program was established at MSU in 1997. The program is sponsored by the Gay and Lesbian Faculty and Staff Association of MSU (GLFSA), Health Promotion, and the Student Development and Campus Life Division of the Office of the Dean of Students. It was announced to the campus community on National Coming Out Day and its existence has been publicized through campus publications and the Office of Student Services. In addition to providing support to gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people on campus, this program also educated the campus about the problems of homophobic harassment and the needs of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people for support and inclusion. It is part of GLFSA’s efforts to reduce fear, prejudice and discrimination on campus by fostering a safe and comfortable environment for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender students, faculty and staff.
What is the meaning of the symbols on the decal?
The pink triangle was used by the Nazis to label gay men and the black triangle was used to label lesbians ( and other "anti-socials"). These symbols have been adopted as symbols of GLBT identity, pride and self-esteem. The area bisected these triangles represents the diversity of sexual "minorities" which includes bisexuals. The interconnectedness of human sexuality is thereby represented. The green circle, the opposite of the familiar red circle with a slash, signifies the displayer’s willingness to be supportive to the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people. It also represents the inclusion of straight allies of these communities.
GLBT Safe Space Program
For more information, please contact
Marie Cascarano, 655-7397
Sally Mc Williams, 655-7911
MSU GLBT Safe Place Program
Sponsored by the Gay and Lesbian Faculty Staff Association, Health Promotion, and Student Development and Campus Life Division of the Office of the Dean of Students
GLBT Safe Space logo printed with permission form Donnelly-Colt, Hampton, CT
Text adapted with permission of the University of New Hampshire Safe Zone Program.