Little research has been conducted on sexuality in higher education. Sexual orientation has been included in UWA’s equal opportunity policy since the early nineties, despite the lack of state legislation. However, the UWA community mirrors the broader community in that there are areas where homophobia still exists and where discrimination and harassment on the basis of sexual orientation occurs. The Rainbow Project, conducted in 2001, was a first in Australia. The project aimed to determine the ‘campus climate’ with respect to sexuality, among both staff and students, to identify the key attitudes and behaviours which give rise to discrimination and to identify key issues faced by UWA gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered and intersex (GLBTI) staff. A representative sample of students from the faculties was surveyed. Through a series of statements, students reported their experiences with and attitudes towards GLBTI people and their level of awareness of GLBTI people and aspects of gap and lesbian sexuality. The results of the survey revealed that UWA is generally a tolerant and accepting environment for GLBTI people, but there remain a number of key areas of sexuality which need to be addressed. The results of the student survey indicate there is a need to increase awareness of diversity with respect to sexuality. ‘Young heterosexual males’ reported the greatest intolerance for non-heterosexual people. The most significant matter for concern is that while most students reported having heard derogatory remarks made about homosexuals, few had spoken out against those comments. Many students were uncomfortable with public displays of affection by homosexual people and negative stereotyping of gay men and lesbians still occurs. Students reported a low level of awareness of transgender issues. Staff perceptions were contributed through two informal forums and the results of these forums also revealed that UWA is generally a tolerant and accepting environment for GLBTI people. Both GLBTI and non-GLBTI staff members reported that discrimination and harassment still occur in some areas and that there is a need for a greater awareness of GLBTI people and their related issues and the need to break down stereotypes. It was suggested that staff development programs address sexuality and that a network of advocates for GLBTI staff and students be established. Read the full report on The Rainbow Project in DOC, RTF, PDF format. |