Information for current UWA Allies

Training and an information manual will be provided to all ALLIES.

What are my responsibilities as an ALLY?

• Participate in an interactive training program to

• become better acquainted with your role as an ALLY;
• reflect on personal beliefs and develop self-awareness of your attitudes and commitment to diversity in the community; and
• develop a better understanding of GLBTI issues, queer culture, community, history and available resources to better fulfill your support and advocacy roles.

• Publicly identifying yourself as an ALLY by allowing your name to be posted on the ALLY web site and to be included in information provided to all staff and students.

• Displaying an ALLY sign on your office door and/or wear an ALLY pin to affirm your commitment.

• Providing a safe place to talk for members of the UWA community who seek your support, empathy or friendship and information on GLBTI issues, while maintaining confidentiality.

• Being open to questions from and about GLBTI students and staff.

• Working within and supporting existing policies and practices that bring equity to the UWA community and give open support for GLBTI persons and their issues.

• Attend occasional ALLY development sessions and actively seek to expand their own knowledge and understanding of various issues of concern to GLBTI persons .

Further thoughts ...

The ALLY Network is modelled on similar networks in existence on university campuses in countries such as the USA and Canada and that are gaining momentum in others. It reflects the acknowledged need for a greater awareness of the broadening scope of diversity to include sexuality within our communities.

In WA, debate surrounding the gay & lesbian reform legislation saw an emergence of entrenched homophobia and discrimination in the community. Letters to the editor of the local newspaper at the time are evidence of the uninformed bigotry that still exists in sections of the community.

Some ALLIES may never have someone come to their office. ALLIES will spend minimal time with persons seeking support and advice.

When a GLBTI student or staff member walks by an office that displays an ALLY sign, it is empowering to them to observe this level of support.

Displaying an ALLY sign may lead to questions from colleagues which then creates educational opportunities!

The ALLY Network is an informal network that is not intended to replace formal channels for student and staff grievance on equity matters - formal grievances should be directed to an Equity and Diversity Advisers. ALLIES will be supported through the ALLY Network and Equity and Diversity.