UA Safe Zone Resource Center won the Judy Bonner Presidential Medallion Prize in 2017.
The UA Safe Zone program provides a visible network of allies for lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, queer, and asexual (LGBTQA+) individuals. Safe Zone Allies distribute information regarding sexuality, gender identity, campus and community resources, and methods for reporting harassment or discrimination. The purpose of the Safe Zone program is to foster a University climate where everyone is treated with dignity and where all LGBTQA+ identified individuals are free to thrive academically, professionally and personally.
In addition to holding trainings and hosting events, the UA Safe Zone Program is committed to providing The University of Alabama community with resources to build an environment based on dignity and respect, in which every student and employee is free to thrive academically, professionally, and personally. For example, Safe Zone provides a three-hour training program that allows participants to develop a working knowledge of appropriate and respectful LGBTQA+ terminology; recognize the impact that a negative campus climate has on individuals who identify as LGBTQA+; and identify areas of personal growth as a member of the UA community. Following the training program, participants are invited to sign up to serve as UA Safe Zone Allies.
The director of the program is Kirk Walter, assistant director of student involvement. Members of the advisory board are Alex Davenport, interim conduct investigator for student conduct; Lauren Bennett, residency coordinator; and Kati-Jane Childs, an MFA candidate.