Safe Zone is a community of ETSU staff and faculty who voluntarily facilitate workshops
meant to cultivate a supportive and affirming climate for the LGBTQ+ population on
campus. Workshops are available to interested faculty, staff, and graduate assistants
who elect to register for this optional ally training.
Safe Zone is meant to help participants:
- Understand the qualities and responsibilities of being a supportive ally and treat others with respect.
- Recognize the different stages and challenges LGBTQ individuals may experience and communicate awareness of the potential harm of outing someone without consent.
- Be able to access, share, and discuss accurate information, resources, and language used in the LGBTQ community.
- Reflect on their own beliefs and choices, and consider becoming part of groups or networks that support LGBTQ inclusion.
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Safe Zone 1 Training
This 3-hour workshop is designed to provide participants with a foundational understanding of terminology commonly used in the LGBTQ+ community, the process and importance of "coming out," and what it means to be an ally. Sessions are offered both in-person and online each semester, and are open to faculty, staff, and graduate students. See the ETSU Calendar for more information. -
Safe Zone 2 Training
In this skills-based continuation of the original Safe Zone experience, participants can expect to learn new concepts and sharpen their ally skills in in the process. Sessions are 3-hours and offered online only each semester to those who have already completed the Safe Zone 1 workshop. Please note: a working microphone is required for participation. Email safezone@etsu.edu for details about upcoming sessions.