LGBTIQ pride and support at Sydney
In preparation for the 2017 Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras, we've collated a few ways you can stand with our LGBTIQ staff and students, and the support structures in place every day for those who identify as LGBTIQ.
The Ally Network
The University of Sydney's Ally Network is a group set up to support the inclusion of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex and Queer (LGBTIQ) members of our community. Network members, or 'allies', complete professional development training and are committed to diversity inclusion. All students and staff are invited to join, publicly display their rainbows and be available as support to others. Joining through the website is easy and allies have their contact details published online so they can be called upon by others. Gender and sexually diverse training and Ally training will be rolled out in 2017.
2017 Fair Day
For the first time this year, the University of Sydney will be involved in Fair Day, a free community event on February 19. Come on down and visit our stall, listen to our mini-talk series from members of our community, eat your fill of international dishes and learn about local LGBTIQ organisations.
Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras
The 2017 Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras is set for March 4 – get your most dazzling costume on, bring your pride flag and come see the University of Sydney float and dancers. Last year our dancers beat 194 other floats to win the award for the best choreography! Our float is currently under construction – we’ll be bringing you updates on its progress so stay tuned.
University of Sydney at Mardi Gras 2016
Campus support services for students, staff and visitors
Apart from approaching an Ally in person or through email, students and staff have several avenues to turn to for emotional or medical help.
For students, Counselling and Psychological Services (CAPS) can help with personal issues, and you can browse QSYD for all queer-related things happening on campus.
For staff, AccessEAP provides excellent short-term professional counselling as the University’s employee assistance service. The service is confidential and on hand for personal- and/or work-related issues.
For students, staff and visitors to campus, the University Health Service gives everyone a hand with general and emergency medical care services. For immediate emergency support, Campus Security can be contacted 24/7 on (02) 9351 3333.
Student clubs and societies
Widen your tribe and join groups, clubs and societies whose social and political beliefs reflect your own. Just a few are:
- Queer Action Collective (QuAC) is available for those with a political bent Email queer.officers@src.usyd.edu.au
- SUPRA Queer Portfolio, representing all postgraduates
- Queer Revue: tread the boards, work behind the curtains, or come see a show
Spreading the word
Ensure that you’re familiar with the University’s commitment to diversity and our strategy for inclusion. A commitment to diversity also requires community leadership. Socialise and defend diversity: have those important conversations, call out inappropriate behaviour, and widen the rainbow to all parts of our campus.