Safe Zone Program: Fostering an Inclusive Environment for LGBTQ+ Students

LGBTQ+ students face unique challenges on campus and in the classroom. Lone Star College - University Park’s Safe Zone program is designed to train and develop allies of the LGBTQ+ community by educating faculty and staff on the use of inclusive language and actions that combat stereotyping, tokenizing, heterosexism, homophobia, biphobia, and transphobia. Completers of the program are also educated on resources that help explore and resolve issues unique to LGBTQ+ students. Faculty and staff who successfully complete the Safe Zone training receive a sticker and a pin to identify them as a resource and designate their office as a Safe Zone for LGBTQ+ students. Additional learning opportunities, including a virtual session on Safe Zone: Pride Month & Supporting LGBTQ+ Students During COVID-19, have been offered to train, develop, and promote student allies.

Innovators: Shah S. Ardalan, Rick Curry, Dave Gaer, Kristina Tusini