By Carly Basian
Positive Space Ryerson is relaunching this school year with a new focus on knowledge, equality, community, and celebration.
Stephan Tang, the co-chair of Positive Space Ryerson says the main goal of the re-launch is to increase visibility. They want to engage more members of the Ryerson community to meet the needs of LGBTT2SQQI (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgendered, Transsexual, 2-Spirited, Questioning, Queer, Intersex) people on campus.
The coalition of students, faculty, and staff aims to create an accepting and safe environment for all members of the community regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
The re-launch includes the release of a new logo and a new mentorship program in collaboration with Tri- Mentoring at Ryerson. The program pairs students with an identified LGBTT2SQI person in the same program who offers advice regarding coming out and career plans.
Positive Space Ryerson also offers educational sessions to train students, faculty, and staff in becoming activists. Upon completion of the programs, one receives Positive Space stickers to display in the spaces they spend time in to show sexual and gender diversity and welcomed and respected. One of Postitive Space’s goals is to challenge the silence around LGBTT- 2SQQI issues.
“I think there is a false sense of immunity as we are so close to The Village and have open staff, faculty and students,” said Tang, “But, this does not translate to everyone. I think that we need to remind people that until homophobia and heteronormativity ceases to exist we still have a problem. Ryerson’s strength is in its people and the diversity of who we are,” said Tang.
– With files from Victoria Stunt
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