Safe Zone and Cultural Competency Training

Safe Zone training is an opportunity to learn more about gender and sexual identities and issues facing and within the LGBTQ communities.  It is for everyone to learn how to be better allies and increase awareness of resources on our campus and in Buffalo.  The goal of this training is to inspire others to create safe and affirming environments for all members of our community.

The Pride Center offers LGBTQ Cultural Competency Trainings and presentations on being sensitive to the thoughts, feelings, and experiences of their LGBT customers/clients/students and co-workers.

Topics that are addressed include the basics of appropriate language, definitions of terms, deconstruction of stereotypes, and more specialized issues, as needed.  Cultural competency trainings benefit participants by providing concrete information, real-world examples, role playing and exercises to enlighten participants in ways that lead to a more equal, affirming, and productive environment.  This type of training helps to address considerations such as improving communication, creating safer space, developing tolerance, and enhancing learning and work environments.

Learning objectives may include:

• Defining and discussing LGBTQ terminology
• Recognizing the difference between sex & gender
• Exploring LGBTQ communities, culture, & history
• Understanding aspects of identity
• Understanding how beliefs/feelings/values perpetuate oppression
• Understanding the impact of homophobia, heterosexism, and transphobia on LGBTQ people
• Understanding what it means to be LGBTQ affirmative
• Addressing concerns such as bullying, confidentiality, gendered spaces, and the Dignity for All Students Act (DASA)
• Creating safe, welcoming, and culturally aware space

Presenters

• Terri Budek, Associate Director, Intercultural & Diversity Center, Campus Life, UB
• Steve Jagord, Program Manager, Pride Center of WNY

If you are interested in attending this workshop, please email pssenate@buffalo.edu to register or with any questions. We look forward to seeing you!