Safe Zone Training

Safe Zones are confidential and safe environments for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) individuals. The Safe Zone symbol displayed around the campus identifies individuals who are compassionate, understanding, and committed to helping create an open and accepting environment for all on the COCC and OSU-Cascades campuses.

Why is a Safe Zone needed on our campus?
Our lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer students and employees can feel invisible on our campus and may sometimes find the climate uninviting or not inclusive. The purpose of this program is to reduce homophobia, transphobia, and heterosexism on our campus and, thereby, make our campus a safer environment for all of us regardless of our sexual orientation or gender identification. As a community, we strive to foster a work and learning environment that respects and welcomes all differences.

When I display or see a Safe Zone symbol, what does it mean?
* The person displaying the Safe Zone symbol is a volunteer willing to provide a safe and confidential environment to talk freely. The volunteers are NOT counselors, nor are they expected to be. However, they have knowledge of the needs and concerns of LGBTQ individuals and are willing to listen and support, as appropriate. Volunteers are familiar with campus and community resources and can make referrals as needed.

* We will not assume that those NOT displaying a Safe Zone symbol are intolerant and we understand that those who do display the symbol can offer more resources.

LGTBQ+ Resources | Safe Zone Volunteers | Gender Inclusive Bathrooms on Campus

To become a Safe Zone volunteer or for more information, contact Christy Walker, Director of Diversity and Inclusion at COCC, at 541-383-7412 or cwalker2@cocc.edu.