Background and Purpose
For many 2SLGBTQ+ students, staff, and faculty, university life provides an important opportunity to "come out." This can be a difficult and confusing time, especially if they do not have anyone to whom they can talk or do not know the groups and resources that are available. As well, some queer members of the Trent community continue to report that they have encountered homophobic attitudes and behavior at Trent.
The purpose of the Positive Space Program is to identify and encourage the development of positive spaces throughout Trent University. Positive spaces are locations in which sexual and gender identity is affirmed and individuals can receive support and information on 2SLGBTQ+ issues.
Program participants can provide information and support. 2SLGBTQ+ students, staff, and faculty will benefit by working in an environment where they are made to feel welcome. By establishing the Positive Space Program, Trent is making our campuses more inclusive and comfortable places for all community members.
Principles and Mandate
- All spaces at Trent should be safe for all people, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity and expression.
- While gender and sexual diversity are the focus, the program recognizes the similarities and intersections among all forms of discrimination and the need to combat racism, sexism, ableism, classism, and ageism, in addition to homophobia, transphobia, biphobia, and heterosexism.
- All people have the right to visibility, to acknowledgment of their sexual and gender identity, and access to resources.
- Trent community members have a responsibility to challenge discrimination and contribute to a welcoming and inclusive environment.
Objectives
The objectives of the Positive Space Program are as follows:
- To increase the visibility of 2SLGBTQ+ people, issues, and communities
- To offer support and resources to individuals concerning 2SLGBTQ+ issues
- To strengthen the 2SLGBTQ+ and ally communities on our campuses and in the surrounding communities.
Responsibilities of Program Participants
Participants are volunteers who have attended a Positive Space Information Session and registered with the Program. The responsibilities of participants are:
- To display a Positive Space sticker in a place that clearly identifies the space or area designated as "positive," and to remove the sticker when moving out of the space
- To provide information and support as requested, including information on the Program, relevant resources, 2SLGBTQ+ issues, forms of discrimination and campus violence
- To maintain appropriate relationships with Program users in accordance with the Trent Conflict of Interest Policy.
- To maintain the confidentiality of people using the Program, even after ceasing to be a Positive Space participant.
- To maintain an inclusive and discrimination-free space, to the best of your ability.
- To increase knowledge of issues and resources relevant to 2SLGBTQ+ people; to attend educational events organized by EHRO whenever possible.
Contact EHRO to book training!