Making Schools LGBTQ SAFE
Safe Zones are places that have been designated as safe for LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender) individuals. During the 1970s and early 1990s, the term “safe zone” gained traction as a way to denote spaces where LGBTQ people could feel safe. In the wake of anti-gay hate crimes and routine police raids on gay bars, the term became a popular way to promote safe space.
These “safe zones” have come in many shapes and sizes over the years. In the 1990s, stickers were made that announced a school was a safe space for LGBTQ students. Aside from the sticker itself, these places often have other things that can imply the educator is GAY SAFE -friendly.
The Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island has recently added 21 health care practices to its list of Safe Zones. This program aims to ensure that providers have demonstrated that they care for LGBTQ patients.
The Feinberg School of Medicine’s Department of Medical Education has also recently updated its LGBT Safe Space Training. It has become an important tool for educators to use to help create a safe and welcoming environment for LGBTQ students. Educators should not only be mindful of a safe and inclusive environment, they should also be prepared to address any issues that arise. For example, if an individual has been verbally harassed, it is best to call 911 and let them know what has been said. Similarly, if a person has been beaten or harassed in a public place, it is important to notify the police as soon as possible.
While these programs are designed to improve the environment in schools, they are also vital for helping the community as a whole. The Baltimore Police Department, for instance, has a Safe Place program that provides safety information for the local LGBTQ+ community.
Creating a safe space for LGBTQ people isn’t always easy. As a result, allies are crucial to helping to create an environment that is safe for all. One of the best ways to do this is to speak up and help your allies. By using gender-neutral pronouns and creating a safe and welcoming atmosphere, you can help create a safer space for your allies.
Many different types of efforts to make schools safer for LGBTQ students have taken place throughout the country. Some have included a simple sticker on a door indicating a school is a “safe zone” for LGBTQ people. Others have been more complex. Other schools may include multiple components, such as a Safe Spaces program and an LGBTQ liaison officer.
Whether you are interested in adding a Safe Zone to your school or just looking for more ways to support your LGBTQ students, the Safe Schools Program for LGBTQ Students offers professional development, technical assistance, and policy guidance. There are resources available for all levels of administrators and teachers, and they are ready to answer any questions you might have.
In addition to introducing the Safe Zone Program to your school, you can also consider joining the Safe Spaces Committee. Members of the committee include Tiffany Darragh, Billie-Ann Bruce, and Robin Lee. They will provide training on how to create a safe and inclusive environment for LGBTQ youth, and how to discuss a variety of LGBTQ terms with your students.
