Ally Network
The Pride Network is an initiative designed to enhance University culture by creating a more welcoming and inclusive environment for members of the Flinders community who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, and queer (LGBTIQ).
Why have a Pride Network at Flinders?
Recent Australian research and anecdotal evidence shows that prejudicial behaviours based on sexuality frequently occur in schools and tertiary institutions, including Flinders University. This is despite the existence of anti-discrimination legislation and policies. The visible presence of Pride Network on campus goes some way in creating a safer and more welcoming environment for both new and current members of the Flinders community who do not identify as heterosexual by:
- Proactively addressing prejudicial behaviours and language.
- Providing a safe place for people to talk about issues related to sexuality and/or gender identity.
- Educating people about issues related to sexuality and/or gender identity .
What is the Pride Network?
The Pride Network comprises staff and students who are knowledgeable in, receptive to and understanding of LGBTIQ issues.
Pride Network members provide a safe place to talk for members of the Flinders community who seek support in a confidential environment.
They act as a contact point for staff or students and are able to discuss LGBTIQ issues in essays, curriculum, finding information, resources, support, coming out and other life issues.
Pride Network members are representative of the entire Flinders community and are therefore not identified on the basis of their sexuality.
A Pride Network member is not:
- someone with ready-made answers
- necessarily a counsellor, nor necessarily trained to deal with crisis situations
- necessarily able to provide assistance with the grievance process associated with harassment or discrimination
- An open, accepting attitude
- To be listened to, to be understood and be able to explore the issues
- Confidentiality
- A wide variety of referral avenues both on and off campus
- Completion of essential training
- Act as a role model for the University in terms of their language and behaviour
- Proactively addressing behaviours considered prejudicial towards sexual diversity
- Knowing when to refer on / seek further assistance
- Attending occasional Ally meetings and information sessions on various issues
Becoming a Pride Network member
Because most people grow up in a world that is predominantly heterosexual, our beliefs, attitudes and behaviours are often shaped by this, with assumptions made and entrenched in our culture. However, this ‘one size fits all’ model does not necessarily accommodate LGBTIQ people. The process of alliance to LGBTIQ people and LGBTIQ issues can take time. For this reason, awareness training and information sessions that examine heterosexist assumptions are an essential part of becoming a Pride Network Member.
All Pride Network members need to take part in training. Undertaking the training does not necessarily lead to having your details as a contact on the webpage and you may decide the role is not one you feel comfortable with.
If you are interested in becoming a Pride Network member, please contact the Pride Network committee.
Pride Network members
Sturt Rd, Bedford Park
South Australia 5042
Follow Flinders
CRICOS Provider: 00114A
This website uses cookies
Flinders University uses cookies to ensure website functionality, personalisation, and for a variety of purposes described in the website privacy statement. For details about these cookies and how to set your cookie preferences, refer to our website privacy statement.
You consent to the use of our cookies if you proceed.