Safe Place Manual - Introduction

 

Our Mission Statement

The GLBT Safe Place Program strives to reduce homophobia and heterosexism on Michigan Tech’s campus. Through education, advocacy, and awareness, the program contributes to an open campus climate that is safe and accepting to all members of the University community.

What is the Safe Place Program?

The Safe Place Program is a campus-wide program that offers a visible message of inclusion, acceptance and support to gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender (GLBT) people in the University community.

Keweenaw Pride initiated the Safe Place program in 1996 as part of its mission to provide support and education for Michigan Tech students, staff, and faculty. The program is intended to create visible signs within the campus community that will help gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender (GLBT) persons feel more comfortable. In an effort to foster a more supportive environment, Keweenaw Pride offers this program for Michigan Tech's students, staff, faculty, and community members who wish to learn more about the GLBT community. As of January 2004, the Divison of Student Affairs has adopted the Safe Place Program as a function of their offices.

What is the purpose the of Safe Place Program?

The purpose of the Safe Place Program is to identify members of the University community who will model support, acceptance and inclusion of GLBT people. Participants in this program will volunteer to be visible allies and effective resource people. The Safe Place Program is open to all staff, faculty and students who are committed to making Michigan Tech a safe environment for ALL of its members, including GLBT persons.

Why do we need a Safe Place Program?

Because Michigan Tech’s Policy on Discrimination and Harassment states, “In keeping with its responsibilities as an educational institution, Michigan Technological University is committed to a policy of affording equal opportunity to all of its employees, students, applicants for employment and applications for admission without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, height, weight, or marital status.”

In a study of college campuses, over two thirds of gay and lesbian college students have reported experiences of harassment and violence while at college. (Norris, 1992) In an effort to provide a more inclusive environment for GLBT individuals and ALL University members and to keep in the spirit of the Policy on Discrimination and Harassment, the Safe Place Program is being implemented.

What are the participant guidelines?

Participants in the Safe Place Program strive to make appropriate referrals to community and University resources, promote the acceptance of GLBT persons in the classroom and workplace, respect the confidentiality of individuals seeking assistance, and become an advocate for adherence to the University’s Policy on Discrimination and Harassment. Safe Place participants work to become aware of the presence of GLBT students and colleagues and are willing to engage in genuine dialogue and interaction. Participants are expected to comfortably use inclusive language, avoid stereotypes and do not assume everyone is heterosexual. Lastly Safe Place participants visibly display the Safe Place symbol and may be asked to serve as a resource for other University staff, faculty and students who have questions.

How do I enroll in the Safe Place Program?

First read through the Safe Place Manual and complete the registration form. Your Safe Place materials will arrive in 7-10 business days. Hard copy registration materials are available by the Office of Student Activities. In an effort to practice sound environmental principles and to keep costs to a minimum, electronic medium is preferred.