A new anti-homophobia campaign at Kwantlen Polytechnic University aims to create a more inclusive campus for students.
Positive Space Kwantlen launched Feb. 22 at all four Kwantlen campuses – Surrey, Cloverdale, Langley and Richmond – in an effort to increase support and awareness for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer (LGBTQ) people and issues.
Plans include volunteer training; identifying LGBTQ-positive spaces and resources; facilitating campus workshops on issues relating to sexual orientation, gender identity and expression; and conducting awareness and publicity campaigns.
The campaign is a start on “creating a long-term positive change,” said Matthew DiMera, ‘queer liaison’ for Kwantlen Student Association.
“LGBTQ students are largely invisible at Kwantlen. This campaign is the first step in addressing that.”
The campaign also advocates a learning atmosphere that is free of discrimination or harassment on the basis of sexual orientations and gender identities.
Positive Space Kwantlen is a joint effort between the university, the student association and Pride Kwantlen. The Feb. 22 kickoff included informative presentations and the unveiling of the Positive Space logo.