Allies Network Training

 

The Allies Network is designed to improve visibility and support to lesbian, gay bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, allied, and asexual (LGBTQIA) students and employees. While other minority individuals can often identify role models and mentors, the invisibility of sexual orientation makes it very difficult for LGBTQIA members of the University of Pittsburgh community to ascertain where they can safely turn for support and information. The Allies Network will provide easily recognizable individuals who will be available to provide these resources. The Allies Network sign is a message to LGBTQIA students and colleagues that an employee has participated in the Allies Network training and is committed to increasing their knowledge of and sensitivity to LGBTQIA issues.  The sign allows the campus community to identify program members and know that they can speak freely with these individuals about issues, including sexual orientation and gender identity, which may affect their academic success or job satisfaction. Allies Network members will be able to provide assistance, as needed, including referrals. Since the Allies Network program also strives to improve the campus climate for LGBTQIA individuals, the sign also signifies that Allies Network members will challenge homophobic and heterosexist comments or behaviors in an educational and informative manner. 

Training is approximately 4 hours in length.

To schedule a training for your department or register for the next training – contact Sherdina Harper at Allies@pitt.edu.