Safe Zone workshops next month

The first of two Safe Zone workshops for the 2006 fall semester is Tuesday, Oct. 3.

The workshop begins at 4 p.m. in the Student Center's Iroquois Room.

The Safe Zone program has been in existence on the SIUC campus since 1995.

The nationwide Safe Zone program provides training to University community members on how to be an ally for gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender (GLBT) students, faculty and staff.

The workshops are open to administrators, faculty and staff. Participants are welcome regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Registration is not required but for more information email Carmen Suarez, interim assistant vice chancellor for enrollment management, and director of SIUC's Office of Diversity and Equity.

Both the workshop and membership are free.

The workshops contain an interactive component and those attending will be asked to engage in conversation with fellow participants. Those who complete SIUC's Safe Zone training receive placards or items such as stickers or buttons that help identify them as people who support GLBT individuals and who work to combat heterosexism and homophobia on the campus.