Laurier Positive Space

Positive Space

Often identified as the cornerstone of University initiatives aimed at making campuses more inclusive for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transsexual, transgendered, two-spirited, intersexed and queer (LGBTTTIQ) students, staff and faculty, the establishment of a Positive Space Program at Laurier represents an important step towards creating a campus environment that embraces diversity among its citizenry. A campus dedicated to addressing LGBTTTIQ issues needs to have educational and training programs institutionalized with the university.

The Positive Space Program brings visibility and support to LGBTTTIQ communities at Laurier. Participants who have completed the educational component of the program post a Positive Space Sticker at the entrance of their work, living, or study area, or have a button indicating that they are LGBTTTIQ-positive and able to provide information and referrals. The presence of the stickers raises awareness of the difference that exists on campus and sensitizes others to both subtle and overt forms of heterosexism and homophobia. This program is a reflection of Laurier’s commitment to welcome and include all members of its community and to create a campus that is free of discrimination based on gender and sexual identity.

Interested volunteers go through a 2 step process before deciding to register as a program participant: they complete a questionnaire which is available on the training session registration page and attend a 1.5 hour information session to become familiar with the program and their role. At the end of the information session those who feel comfortable participating and endorsing the aim of the Positive Space Program are given either a sticker for posting or a button. Participants in the Program are not expected to provide counseling but rather indicate that they are familiar with LGBTTTIQ issues, discrimination and harassment policies and local resources.

A list of participants can be found on the "Positive Space Program Participants" page.