University News

Safe Space Training April 15

April 2, 2019

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MACOMB, IL -- Gay, lesbian, trans* and bisexual students can face epithets, slurs and misunderstanding, and these issues can affect their performance in class, their interaction within the residence halls and their ability to function as a member of the campus community.

According to Robby Specht, a WIU graduate assistant who oversees Western Illinois University's Safe Space program, students may not be comfortable sharing these issues with faculty, staff and administrators because they may fear harassment or rejection.

A Safe Space training session will be held from 3-5 p.m. Monday, April 15 in the University Union Sandburg Lounge as part of Pride Week at Western to familiarize Safe Space participants with the concerns and problems gay, lesbian, trans* and bisexual students face. The sessions will also give participants practical ways for dealing with homophobia and heterosexism, Specht explained.

The purpose of Western's Safe Space program is to give faculty, staff and administrators the opportunity to identify themselves as allies to gay, lesbian, trans* and bisexual students and colleagues. Students who see the Safe Space decal will know they are entering an environment where they can be free to share the issues they may be facing.

"Allies are not always visible to gay, lesbian, trans* and bisexual students," Specht added. "As a result, students may not be honest about the true issues affecting their college career."

Space is limited and will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
For more information or to register, contact Specht at (309) 298-4004 or via email RJ-Specht@wiu.edu. Groups may also schedule Safe Space training by contacting Specht.

Posted By: University Communications (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
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