Murdoch University's Pro Vice Chancellor Equity Diversity and Inclusion Dr Rebecca Bennett shares the importance of LGBTIQA+ visibility
Universities face growing expectations from students.
They expect their institution to provide flexible access to an industry-ready education, a sense of purpose and contribution throughout their studies, and the connections to secure relevant employment when they graduate.
They also expect to be welcomed and included, which is not always a given for those from diverse communities. Murdoch has long been considered a welcoming place for these students, and it all started and continues today with one thing: visibility.
Today, over 20% of young people identify as LGBTIQA+, which is reflected in our student body. Alongside rising levels of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Identities, Cultural and Linguistic Diversity, and Disability and Neurodiversity, the traditional university student is changing.
So what makes a campus safe for these people? What makes it welcoming and supportive? Visibility.
We deliberately have many elements of pride visible across campus. From the progress pride flag flying at the Chancellery, to the pride pianos on Bush Court and the swathes of rainbow lanyards worn by staff across campus, it’s hard to miss the rainbows that signal LGBTIQA+ inclusion.
These symbols have evolved into pride email signatures, inclusive lecture slides and queered curriculums in a growing number of units. Days of significance such as Wear it Purple Day, which we recognise on 25 August, are growing in uptake.
This visibility makes a tangible difference to the membership of both staff and student LGBTIQA+ networks, both of which have rapidly grown in the past 12 months.
Nationally, World Pride was hosted in Sydney this year and the Matildas were the team with the most publicly “out” queer players in the history of the Women’s World Cup.
On a university and national stage, visibility of LGBTIQA+ people and communities has never been clearer.
What does that translate to? Visibility is a precursor to inclusion, belonging and community.
Because to feel included, find belonging and sense community requires vulnerability on a personal account. Visibility initiatives spark conversations and give diverse groups the environment to be vulnerable.
So, as a university, we must create that safety for our staff and students, rather than assume our spaces are safe to begin with. This begins with visibility and continues with action and advocacy in the form of dedicated inclusion initiatives, strategies and policies.
We want campuses where everyone can be their full selves and take pride in that. In order for them to do so, we must couple their vulnerability with our commitment to designing a space where they can.
Wear it Purple Day carries an important message of support for the LGBTIQA+ community at Murdoch, even more so to members of the wider community who do not yet feel safe enough to come “out”.
- By Murdoch University Pro Vice Chancellor Equity Diversity and Inclusion Dr Rebecca Bennett