Vol. 19, No. 24

March 16, 2000

LGBT office announces its
new Allies support program

This spring, the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender (LGBT) Community Office is initiating an Allies Program to supplement continued efforts to raise awareness of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender issues on campus, according to Judith Gibson, assistant vice president for affirmative action and multicultural programs. Through this program, a campuswide network of individuals will act as resources for members of the campus community who have questions or concerns related to LGBT issues. Similar programs at colleges and universities nationwide have been successful in addressing the concerns of LGBT students, faculty and staff. UD Allies will prominently display the Allies Program logo to highlight their visibility to LGBT community members. Allies will be expected to support individuals who have questions or concerns about such issues as sexual identity, sexual harassment, community resources and support systems. Allies are not expected to be trained counselors but rather good listeners who can direct those who come to them for assistance to trained professionals and resources. Allies also will be able to consult with one another, as well as staff in the LGBT Community Office and the counseling center. To become part of the Allies Program, interested individuals must complete a brief orientation session that will address listening skills, LGBT resources and other matters of importance for an effective program. This spring, small group orientation sessions will be held the evening of April 11 and the morning of April 12. To attend one of these sessions or to secure more information, visit <http://www.udel.edu/allies>, send e-mail to <lgbtoffice@ udel.edu> or call 831-8703. Space in the orientation sessions is limited. The application deadline for April training is March 24.