The University’s Safe Space hosts gathered Wednesday for the first time this semester to learn about updates and improvements to the 2003-2004 Safe Space campaign.
Safe Space brings queer students and University faculty and staff together. Hosts are identified by a Safe Space sticker on their door, indicating they are open to students of any sexual orientation.
At a University where being queer can mean feeling isolated, more than 100 faculty and staff members can make a difference
“It can be difficult to be a queer student here,” said Marissa Frye, a women and gender studies sophomore. “With Safe Space, I know that I can go somewhere and be safe. I can talk about my girlfriend and not be afraid.”
The reception honoring Safe Space hosts included a brief update in the program’s policies. One of the most notable updates is the substitution of the word “queer” for “lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender” in the Safe Space campaign training handbook.
“It’s a term that our generation is reclaiming,” said Frye. “It’s much more inclusive.”
Queer includes questioning and unidentified people.
At the reception, Katrice Albert, Office of Multicultural Affairs director, implored hosts to realize their importance.
“We are at a crossroads,” she said. “Our students see LGBT students who are more and more open about their sexuality. But there is still a bias.”
Albert said the Safe Space campaign was an effort to alleviate prejudices.
Kelly Croner, Safe Space campaign coordinator, also emphasized the importance of hosts and said their role is central to the program’s success.
Rachel All, a biochemistry senior, said the program already has been successful.
“It helps to know your professors are open to you,” she said. “Also, the sticker serves as a symbol to straight students, letting them know we are here.”
Cameron Thies, associate professor of political science and Spectrum Alliance faculty adviser, credited the program’s achievements to Spectrum Alliance, a student organization for the LGBT community.
“The leaders on these kinds of issues have consistently been the students,” he said. “And they have made this program one of the bright spots on this campus.”
Amber Vlasnik, Women’s Center manager, is a host. She said she appreciated seeing other hosts gathered together to support the queer community.
“It’s good to see that you’re a part of a larger campus movement,” she said.
Mary Feduccia, Career Services director, also was encouraged by the presence of other hosts. She said her goal is to support students on campus who may not feel accepted.
“I think if a student comes to LSU and doesn’t feel supported, regardless of which area support is needed, we are not doing all we can for them.”