Safe Place Manual - MTU's Position

 

FROM THE DESK OF:
Les P. Cook, Ed. D.
Vice President for Student Affairs

As a public University and one that seeks to recognize the importance of each individual student, we strive to provide an environment that is supportive and inclusive of all students. The University is committed to providing a forum and a variety of programs and services that facilitate dialogue and create positive relationships between students, faculty, staff, and the GLBT community.

Michigan Tech University is resolute in providing a vibrant and safe campus for all students -- a place where students are challenged intellectually, encouraged to become involved in the campus community, and engaged in meaningful discussions about the world they seek to create. Understanding and an appreciation of others is valued and we are determined to make diversity a university-wide priority.

The University strives to make every effort to maintain an environment that is welcoming and supportive of all students. Because GLBT students don’t always feel comfortable or understood, the Safe Place Project, coordinated by Keweenaw Pride and the Student Activities Department and supported by the University, is an initiative that seeks to provide a network of support and education for the Michigan Tech community. The Safe Place symbol that is voluntarily displayed across campus is an effort to demonstrate awareness, acceptance, and support of the GLBT community at MTU. Your participation in the Safe Place Project demonstrates that you value an open and just community where learning occurs regardless of individual differences.

The Division of Student Affairs is fully supportive of the Safe Place Program and I am happy to display the Safe Place symbol.

FROM THE DESK OF:
Sherry L. Kauppi
Director of Human Resources

The Safe Place Project stirs members of our community to reflect on what "safe" might mean to each of us. Campus members may not be aware of the fears of others who live, work, and study here. These individuals are valued members of our scholarly community, yet they may have to contend with threats and hostility that most of us never even consider. Through "Safe Place," the Keweenaw Pride group is working toward several important goals of the Michigan Tech campus.

First, by educating the campus about the GLBT group, they help dispel fears. Fear often fuels the aggressive behaviors that plague many communities. Also the project may reduce the fears of the GLBT members themselves. Their worries about being the targets of aggression can be very real. This program helps to identify their committed allies and it enhances assurances of support for our Michigan Tech GLBT students and colleagues. And quite importantly, the "Safe Place" project promotes overall success for each campus member. As our campus group implements "Safe Place," they develop the skills for improving the living and learning conditions of persons on campus. Eventually these skills and focus may be used to assist the larger society to carry out its commitment to inclusion, security for all and thriving diversity. American society has benefited in vital and defining ways from many forms of advocacy like the "Safe Place" program.