The Safe Space Committee strives to reduce homophobia, transphobia and heterosexism in the Old Dominion University community. We are dedicated to a vision of a community that is open, safe, and accepting to all lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer or questioning people and allies. We help cultivate this climate through awareness, education, and advocacy.
One Committee, Many Ways to Get Involved!
Are you passionate about providing a safe space for all LGBTQ members of the ODU community? There are many ways to join our efforts.
Safe Space Ally Certification
Students, Faculty and Staff are invited to attend Safe Space Ally training certification sessions. Those certified begin a lifelong ally journey.
Explore Resources & Opportunities
- Lavender Reception
- ODU's Annual Pridefest
- Spirit Day
- Rainbow Graduation
- Awareness Days
Spectrum Theme Community
This community is ideal for students wanting to embrace diversity in a safe and affirming environment that brings together LGBTQ students and straight allies to freely explore issues of gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, and the intersection of those while advocating for awareness and social justice.
Express interest in being a part of this Living Learning Community (LLC)!
For Transfer & Upperclass Students
- Lavender Reception
- ODU's Annual Pridefest
- Spirit Day
- Rainbow Graduation
- Awareness Days
Spectrum Theme Community
This community is ideal for students wanting to embrace diversity in a safe and affirming environment that brings together LGBTQ students and straight allies to freely explore issues of gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, and the intersection of those while advocating for awareness and social justice.
Express interest in being a part of this Living Learning Community (LLC)!
For Transfer & Upperclass Students
Connect with Resources
Actions you can take
- Becoming a Safe Space Committee member
- Participating in Ally Training (and encouraging colleagues to do so)
- Attending or spreading the word about our special events
- Subscribing to our listserv
- Self-identifying as an ally or LGBTQ on our website
- Requesting an LGBTQ 101 presentation for your class
- Joining the LGBTQ faculty/staff network
- Participating in our 'It Gets Better' video
- Co-hosting an LGBTQ-related event on campus
- Supporting Gay Cultural Studies and ODU Out
- Getting involved with community organizations such as the LGBT Life Center and Hampton Roads Pride
- Educating yourself about LGBTQ concerns and current events
- Participating in our Student Ally Training
- Attending or spreading the word about our special events
- Following us on Facebook or Twitter
- Participating in our 'It Gets Better' video *new initiative*
- Joining SAGA
- Signing up to live on the Spectrum Floor
- Getting involved with community organizations such as the LGBT Life Center and Hampton Roads Pride
