Diversity Week
Valuing Sexual Diversity - Launching the Ally Network
Wednesday 5th August
5.30pm-6.30pm
U@MQ Level 3
s s for students and staff
5.00pm drinks and nibbles in foyer on Level 3 U@MQ Building
5.30 – 6.30pm The Ally Network is LAUNCHED!
(Note: The "Many Voices…" Musical Night starts 6.30 for 7pm in room adjacent. Hear Voices from the Vacant Lot, The Macquarie University Singers AND The Idea of North – ALL WELCOME – register on-line)
Guest Speakers:
- Sarah Penicka-Smith, conductor of the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Choir and as of 2009 Semester 2, The Macquarie Singers
- Associate Professor Lynne Hillier, Victorian Health Senior Research Fellow at the Australian Research Centre in Sex Health & Society, LaTrobe University
The Launch is an opportunity to celebrate and let the broader MQ community know about the Ally Network. It also reaffirms the university's endorsement of the Network as an important initiative for Macquarie University.
Our current Allies will be introduced to the university community and prominent speakers will share their experiences as GLBTI staff and students at Macquarie.
Our guest speaker, Associate Professor Lynne Hillier from LaTrobe University will present on research into adolescent gender and sexuality.
What is The Ally Network?
Allies are trained staff and students across the university who support gay, lesbian, bi-sexual, transgender and intersex (GLBTI) staff and students through:
- standing up in support of GLBTI staff and students and combating homophobia or gender/ sexual discrimination on campus
- showing public support through displaying an Ally sticker at their work station or office door
- giving appropriate referrals and up to date information on GLBTI issues to GLBTI and non-GLBTI staff and students.
- being a 'safe space' and a friendly ear for GLBTI staff and students and those questioning
- undertaking ongoing professional development on GLBTI issues and participating at events which support GLBTI staff and students
Allies are not experts on GLBTI issues or counsellors. They contribute to the development of an aware, safe, and supportive work and study environment for members of the university community identifying as GLBTI.
Why have a Network?
Without an environment which is supportive, safe and accepting, GLBTI staff and students may experience isolation, fear, and decreased confidence and self esteem. This in turn may negatively affect their experience and success in employment and education here at Macquarie.
From a student perspective, an Ally Network safeguards the mental and physical health of young people who may be questioning their sexuality or who decide to 'come out' during their university years.
In 2009 at least 15 Australian universities have active Ally networks.
Contact
Kate Wilson
kate.wilson@mq.edu.au