Ally Network

 Ally Logo

The UWS Ally Network is a University endorsed group of staff and students who are committed to creating an inclusive and respectful culture at UWS for gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, intersex and queer (LGBTIQ) community members.

What is an Ally?

An Ally is a volunteer (staff or student) from the UWS community who is committed to cultural change and who provides support to LGBTIQ community members at UWS.

UWS Allies

  • can be identified by the display of an official Ally sticker or Ally button
  • provide a welcoming and confidential 'safe zone' for LGBTIQ staff and students
  • demonstrate leadership in the areas of respect and inclusion for LGBTIQ staff and students
  • practice respectful, accepting and non-homophobic language and behaviour that is in keeping with UWS policy work towards increasing the acceptance of diverse sexualities and genders
  • develop and promote a greater understanding of the LGBTIQ community
  • promote a community that includes and embraces diverse sexualities and gender
  • work to dismantle homophobia and heterosexism
  • commit to making positive changes within UWS
  • attend Ally Network meetings

Ally Network Meetings:

Tuesday, 19 February 2013; 12pm-2:30pm RSVP
Venue: Werrington South, Ward Seminar Room WS-BA 1.23-24

Tuesday, 21 May 2013; 12pm-2:30pm RSVP
Venue: Parramatta South, PS-EB 2.21

Wednesday, 21 August 2013; 12pm-2:30pm RSVP
Venue: Bankstown, BA-01.1.119

Wednesday, 23 October 2013; 12pm-2:30pm RSVP
Venue: Hawkesbury, HW-H4.G.04

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Why become a UWS Ally?

There are many reasons to become and ally, following are a few:

  • You could make a difference to your campus environment and the experience of LGBTIQ staff and students
  • You could make the campus a better place for everyone
    You have the opportunity to interact with and learn from a community with which you may not otherwise interact
  • Your work toward ending homophobia and heterosexism could help members of the LGBTIQ community develop stronger self-esteem and pride in who they are

How do I become an UWS Ally?

In order to become an UWS Ally you need to complete a training session, organised by Equity and Diversity, during which you will cover the following topics:

  • Reflection upon your own assumptions and understanding of LGBTIQ people
  • Become familiar with some of the issues faced by LGBTIQ staff and students such as sexual prejudice and "coming out"
  • Overview of the UWS Ally Network and what it means to become an Ally at UWS

After the training session, you can nominate your self to become an Ally, and we will provide you with the UWS Ally stickers and Ally pin to identify you as an Ally.

You may also find that you do not feel comfortable with the role of Ally and decide not to become one.

The Ally Network communicates via email and meets four times a year to discuss issues, organise events, and participate in training. We also have a social group that gets together to attend social events.

More information

For further information contact Tatiana Lozano, Manager Education on 9678 7370 or t.lozano@uws.edu.au.

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