Unlike more visible under-represented groups, lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) persons cannot be readily identified. Likewise, there is not easy method of identifying persons supportive of LGBT issues. As one component of the LGBT Support Network, the Safe Space Program strives to provide a way for supportive persons within the University community to prominently identify themselves. The program advances Northwestern University's goal of creating a campus community in which everyone is treated with respect and dignity. Please consider this your invitation to participate.

The Safe Space symbol is based on the rainbow flag, which is representative of the acceptance of the diversity within our entire society, as well as the more specific LGBT communities. The triangle shape is derived from symbols the Nazis used to identify gay men (pink triangle) and lesbians (black triangle) in concentration camps. These icons have been reclaimed by the gay rights movement as symbols of empowerment and remembrance.

The goal of this program is to provide a more hospitable environment for LGBT people at Northwestern by establishing an identifiable network of allies who can provide support, information, and a safe haven to LGBT individuals within the University community.

• To identify and mobilize a network of people who are empathetic and knowledgeable about LGBT issues and concerns. The Safe Space training will emphasize knowledge about campus and community resources as well as counseling/helping skills.
• To provide evidence of LGBT support by displaying a sign as a visible symbol of personal commitment.
• To reduce the fear of reprisal and discrimination of LGBT persons within the NU community.

• Complete Safe Space training program .
• To display the Safe Space symbol .
• To be available to members of the University community who wish to discuss LGBT concerns and issues.
• To share information about University and community resources related to LGBT life.
• To respect privacy and confidentiality.
• To keep current on resources and continue to learn about LGBT issues.

As a participant in the Safe Space program, you are openly declaring support for LGBT individuals and their empowerment. You agree to publicly display the sticker provided and understand that your name and contact information will be published in various media and available to those who request it.

• Students, faculty, staff & administrators
• Heterosexual, lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender NU community members who are informed about campus and community resources
• People who are respectful of confidentiality
• Those who are supportive of the right of all people to participate fully, equally, and openly in the life of this community without fear.

"What is the training program like? Why do people have to go through it to become a member of the Safe Space Program?"

The training component of the program is in place to ensure that members of the Safe Space program are knowledgeable and comfortable dealing with LGBT issues and concerns. It also provides opportunities to connect with a group of people to form another support framework - after all, people who are allies also need support. We understand that some participants will come to the program with considerable background in these issues, but we require everyone to attend a training session. The facilitators will ensure that the training will be a worthwhile experience no matter the backgrounds of the participants. The training will cover (but will not necessarily be limited to) the following:

• Listening/helping skills
• How to be a support during the coming out process
• Theories of sexual identity formation/development
• Campus and community resources
• What is an ally? Ally development theories
• What it means to be a part of this Safe Space program.

"What may happen if I put a Safe Space sticker on my door?"

• LGBT people may feel more free to speak openly with you so there is genuine communication
• People may turn to you for support or for information about LGBT issues, services, programs, and concerns
• You may never notice a difference when you interact with others, but you will know you are making a difference
• You will be making a contribution to the improvement of NU's campus communities and lives of LGBT individuals at Northwestern.

I understand that as a participant in the LGBT Safe Space program, I am openly declaring my support for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender issues and concerns. I agree to publicly display the sticker provided to me upon successful completion of the training program. I understand that as a participant in the Safe Space program, my name and contact information (as listed on this form) will be published in various media and available to those who request it. This list will not imply a specific sexual orientation, but will imply status as an ally. I agree with goals, objectives, and member responsibilities of the Safe Space Program as stated on this Web site. I understand that failure to adhere to the member responsibilities may result in my being removed as a member of the program.

Additionally, if I am unsure about my ability to commit to being an ally, I may attend the training but will not sign an ally contract or receive a sticker.