University of Memphis' SafeZone Program Purpose:

The SafeZone Program at the U of M exists to support gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, intersexed, and questioning U of M students, faculty and staff, to improve the overall U of M campus environment and to educate the entire campus community on concerns relating to GLBTIQ issues. The University of Memphis’ commitment to diversity and civility undergirds the SafeZone Program’s efforts to support the GLBTIQ community on campus.

All students deserve to learn in an environment that’s supportive and friendly, regardless of their sexual orientation or their gender identity or expression. Anti-GLBTIQ bias affects all students and impacts negatively on academic performance, school experiences, and the mental and emotional health of those discriminated against, as well as those who discriminate. Unfortunately, protection of GLBTIQ students is more the exception than the rule across the country. Change must come at the grassroots level on the part of those willing to make positive efforts through support, education, and publicity.

Homophobia and transphobia hurt us all. They discourage diversity, encourage hurtful behaviors, and put limits on our relationships and roles in the campus community. Being a part of the SafeZone Program will give you an opportunity to learn about yourself and others and will help you make the U of M a better place for everybody—GLBTIQ or straight, whether student, faculty or staff.

SafeZones serve as a source of support and information free of judgment and hostility. SafeZone members will display the SafeZone logo to indicate that they have completed SafeZone certification and have signed a contract expressing their commitment to SafeZone policies and certification procedures. Outside of their direct support for GLBTIQ students, SafeZone members will be expected to challenge assumptions and prejudices related to sexual orientation and gender identity and to address heterosexist comments and/or behaviors in an educational, civil and informative manner.