The program offers a variety of workshops providing a foundation of knowledge needed to be an effective ally to the LGBTQ+ community at Penn State. Individuals who complete workshops can choose to display a Safer People Safer Places decal in their work area. Network members should be comfortable with LGBTQ+ individuals approaching them to talk about LGBTQ+ related issues, and be able to assist individuals in finding campus and/or local resources. Those who complete the foundations workshop will also be added to our Safer People Safer Places network listserv and be listed on our website as a network participant.
Program Workshops
Please note, all individuals must complete the Foundations workshop before electing other available options. Registration is required for Safer People, Safer Places Workshops.
Safer People Safer Places: Foundations Workshop
The Safer People Safer Places Foundations workshop provides a baseline knowledge for understanding and addressing sexual and gender diversity.
Through the workshop, participants discuss a variety of topics that will help them become a better ally and provide support to members of the LGBTQ+ community. After attending the Foundations workshop, participants will be able to define and describe common concepts and language relating to sexuality and gender; explore the experience of homophobia, heterosexism and genderism; and identify specific actions to create welcoming, affirming and inclusive spaces for people marginalized by their sexuality and/or gender. After completing the Foundations workshop, participants will be able to display the Safer People Safer Places decal as well as be listed on our online resource page as a network member.
Safer People Safer Places: Transgender & Gender Inclusion 101 Workshop
The Transgender and Gender Inclusion 101 Workshop explores basic terminology associated with the transgender and/or gender non-binary community, engages participants in a discussion around gender diversity, and highlights some of the challenges constructed by gender restrictive practices. The workshop concludes with ways to be an ally to transgender and gender non-binary community members and challenges participants to recognize ways that they can foster culture change.
Safer People Safer Places: Lunch and Learn Sessions
The Safer People Safer Places program has been created to foster culture change across Penn State. As part of that mission, the Safer People Safer Places Lunch and Learn sessions are meant to provide network members with direct and on-going conversations around real-life situations related to bias and discrimination that occur in the daily life of the University and surrounding community.
Upcoming Workshop Schedule & Registration Links
Summer 2024
Click on the date to register for the workshop!
Safer People Safer Places: Foundations
August 7, 10:00am-12:00pm, HUB 134
Fall 2024
Safer People Safer Places Foundations
September 12, 9:00-11:00am, HUB 134
October 4, 9:00-11:00am, HUB 134
November 1, 11:00am-1:00pm, VIRTUAL
Transgender and Gender Inclusion 101
September 24, 9:00-11:00am, HUB 233B
October 17, 9:00-11:00am, HUB 233B
November 13, 11:00am-1:00pm, VIRTUAL
Other Workshops Available
Pronouns and Why they Matter (50-60 minutes)
- In this workshop, attendees will learn the importance of using and affirming people’s pronouns, increase their skills in sharing and asking about pronouns, and learn to apply gender-inclusive language practices to their daily lives.
LGBTQ Inclusion in the Workplace (50-60 minutes)
- In this workshop, participants will learn workplace inclusion strategies at the organizational and individual level, including inclusive language, pronouns, advocacy skills, and more.
CSGD Resource Presentations (Undergraduate or Graduate Students) (15-30 minutes)
- This workshop provides a brief overview of services and programs offered by the Center for Sexual and Gender Diversity, including ways to get involved.
Request a workshop
Looking for a workshop or presentation for your group to enhance your understanding and inclusion of people with diverse sexualities and and genders? CSGD staff can facilitate one of our standard workshops or develop a custom one for your group as our capacity allows. Due to high workshop demand, we ask that your group have at least 15 people committed to attend. Please complete the workshop request form. Questions can be addressed to lgbtq@psu.edu.
If you are looking for a student-led panel or workshop, check the offerings from our Queer Voices Peer Educators!
Safer People Safer Places Network Members
For Student Affairs Staff
University Health Services is your comprehensive on-campus health care resource. We specialize in outpatient student health including the treatment of medically urgent problems and ongoing health concerns. We provide preventative care, education, and resources to help students live a healthy lifestyle.