Safe Zone Reorganization - Fall & Spring 2011
Safe Zone Reorganizing – Assessing and Recruiting New Coordinating Committee Members.
The UIS Safe Zone coordinating committee announces a structural move to the LGBTQA Resource Office and a reorganization process. As of this fall, the Safe Zone program and coordinating committee will be under the leadership of Kerry Poynter, Director of the LGBTQA Resource Office. This move is being used as an opportunity to reorganize and assess during the fall semester. Additionally, new volunteers are being solicited to join the coordinating committee. Of particular interest is the recruitment of students to join the coordinating committee. Online application form for new committee members: https://illinois.edu/fb/sec/2062805.
Safe Zone began at UIS over six years ago as an ad-hoc committee of staff, faculty, and students from across the university. In its duration, the program has trained hundreds of students, staff, and faculty to be better allies to the LGBTQ community at UIS. Safe Zone members are identified by the sign that they hang on their office door or living space and have been required to attend trainings. Members agree that they work to provide a space that is free from homophobia, heterosexism, and transphobia while serving as a resource to LGBTQ and allied students.
Plans are underway to assess the program this fall semester and implement potential changes in the spring. The traditional trainings will not be provided this fall. However, the committee will be providing targeted sessions for resident assistants and select others. Current Safe Zone members can look forward to providing their input during the assessment process and at the upcoming Safe Zone Members Lunch on Wednesday, November 9, 12-1:30PM. Registration for the free lunch is online at https://illinois.edu/fb/sec/4144130.
If you are interested in joining the coordinating committee, would like to request a training, or have questions, please contact the LGBTQA Resource Office at lgbtq@uis.edu or 217-206-8316.
Join the Coordinating Committee!
The coordinating committee consists of volunteer students, staff, and faculty from across the university. Members attend planning meetings twice a month and help co-facilitate trainings each semester. The committee is looking for responsible individuals who are motivated to learn, educate, and make a committment to the program. If interested in joining please fill out the online form at https://illinois.edu/fb/sec/2062805.
Safe Zone Luncheon: What Do I Need to be a Better Ally at UIS?
Wednesday, November 9, 2011, Lincoln Residence Hall (LRH) Great Room12-1:30PM. Register in advance at https://illinois.edu/fb/sec/4144130. Join members of the coordinating committee as we engage in a lively discussion about your needs as a participant in the Safe Zone program at UIS. Safe Zone is undertaking an assessment of the program and your voice, issues, and experiences are needed. Come help us make the program more responsive to your needs. Lunch is free!
