Safe Zone
Safe Zone programs are commonly identified as "ally" programs, where members of the LGBTQIQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, and Questioning) community receive support from and work together with heterosexual supporters, friends, and allies. These programs have been actively growing over the last decade, implemented on many colleges in universities across the United States and in Georgia (University of Georgia and Agnes Scott College).
One of the hallmarks of these Safe Zone programs is the public identification of allies, which is typically symbolized by placing a "Safe" symbol (a pink triangle, rainbow or similar logo) on office doors of faculty and staff and in areas frequented by students on campus. The purpose of the Safe Zone programs is to provide education, training, and support on LGBTQIQ issues in order to create a safer environment for LGBTQIQ individuals on campus through prejudice reduction efforts.
Each Safe Zone program is unique, in that the university where it is housed individually defines its purpose, mission, and goals. This self-generated definition allows each university to tailor the program to the specific needs of the campus environment. Usual components of these ally programs include a resource manual, stickers or signs indicating the presence of the program, an advisory committee, web page resources, and education/training programs. These components are usually organized by a team of interdisciplinary staff and faculty in the university.
