LGBTQ+ Allies
Our LGBTQ+ Allies are a group of staff committed to ensuring that the University’s workplace is an inclusive and LGBTQ+ friendly environment.
The LGBTQ+ Allies have a critical role to play in creating an inclusive workplace here at the University. Stonewall's Top 100 employers routinely tell us that ‘allies’ have been key to advancing fair treatment of LGBTQ+ staff and can have a transformative effect on the culture of an organisation. Here at Essex, we encourage our allies to continuously learn about how to be an effective ally to all those within various intersections of the LGBTQ+ community.
How can I support the LGBTQ+ community?
Below we have listed ideas of how you can be an effective and supportive ally to the LGBTQ+ community:
- include your pronouns at the bottom of your emails
- subscribe to the LGBTQ+ Allies mailing list
- attend Bystander Intervention Training to learn how to safely challenge discrimination (search 'Bystander intervention' in HR Organiser)
- use gender-neutral language in your daily communication, such as emails, committee papers, web entries, etc.
- our Student Wellbeing and Inclusivity Service have also provided guidance for staff supporting LGBTQ+ students within the University, and have provided many resources for LGBTQ+ students.
- support LGBTQ+ events by learning about their history and origins, for example, Trans Awareness Week, LGBTQ+ History Month, Trans Day of Remembrance, Pride, etc.
- queer spaces and events provide a safe environment for LGBTQ+ people to socialise and celebrate their community; as an ally, be mindful of occupying these spaces and remain aware of your behaviour and presence as a guest.
- consume media by LGBTQ+ artists, novelists, scientists, etc.
- if you witness hate crime, report it via Report and Support
If you would like to know more about the work of the allies, please contact Victoria Fontenelle (Chair of the LGBTQ+ Allies) on v.fontenelle@essex.ac.uk.
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"An ally celebrates other people’s differences. An ally challenges inequality. An ally is someone who can check their own privilege. An ally educates others. An ally supports bringing communities together."
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