The Ally Network is an initiative designed to enhance University culture by creating a more welcoming and inclusive environment for members of the Flinders community who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, and queer (LGBTIQ).
Recent Australian research and anecdotal evidence shows that prejudicial behaviours based on sexuality frequently occur in schools and tertiary institutions, including Flinders University. This is despite the existence of anti-discrimination legislation and policies. A visible presence of allies on campus goes some way in creating a safer and more welcoming environment for both new and current members of the Flinders community who do not identify as heterosexual by:
Allies are staff and students who are knowledgeable in, receptive to and understanding of LGBTIQ issues.
Allies provide a safe place to talk for members of the Flinders community who seek support in a confidential environment.
Allies act as a contact point for staff or students and are able to discuss LGBTIQ issues in essays, curriculum, finding information, resources, support, coming out and other life issues.
Allies are representative of the entire Flinders community and are therefore not identified on the basis of their sexuality.
An Ally is not:
Because most people grow up in a world that is predominantly heterosexual, our beliefs, attitudes and behaviours are often shaped by this, with assumptions made and entrenched in our culture. However this ‘one size fits all’ model does not necessarily accommodate LGBTIQ people. The process of alliance to LGBTIQ people and LGBTIQ issues can take time. For this reason, awareness training and information sessions that examine heterosexist assumptions are an essential part of becoming an Ally.
All Allies are subject to a screening process and training. Undertaking the training does not necessarily lead to becoming an Ally and you may decide the role is not one you feel comfortable with and so choose not to become an Ally.
If you are interested in becoming an Ally, please contact the Equal Opportunity team.
You can contact an Ally if you want to discuss any of the topics mentioned above. You can identify the office of a staff member who is an Ally by the official Ally sign on their door or desk:
Sturt Rd, Bedford Park
South Australia 5042
CRICOS Provider: 00114A
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