What is the Ally Network?

The ALLY Program aims to extend the current diversity initiatives of the University into the area of sexual diversity and to create a more diverse and inclusive culture at UWA by promoting greater visibility and awareness of gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and intersex (GLBTI) staff and students and their issues. It is a University initiative currently managed by Equity and Diversity.

The ALLY Network aims to

• Provide a visible network of Identified ALLIES to the GLBTI community;
• create a safe, nurturing, inclusive and affirming environment;
• build a support and advocacy network;
• through education, develop further awareness and visibility of GLBTI staff and students and their issues; and
• forge cultural change.

An ALLY is simply any person who is informed about, is sensitive toward and has an understanding of GLBTI people and their issues. An ALLY affirms the experience and rights of GLBTI persons and chooses to challenge the homophobic and heterosexist values of others in a variety of ways including by individual example and personal awareness. ALLIES are not identified as being heterosexual or GLBTI but are representative of the entire UWA community.