Chapman Safe Space

Safe Space is an educational intervention to show support for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and questioning (LGBTQ) students and to make an environmental and cultural impact on the Chapman University campus through a public display of support for this community. This outward display designates given areas or offices as “safe spaces” for LGBTQ students. This intervention is supported by the Division of Student Life at Chapman University.

Why is Chapman Safe Space necessary?
Homophobia is present at Chapman University through language, lack of services, and a lack of education. There have been several incidents (graffiti, torn signs, office space vandalism) on campus that targeted this population. While Chapman University is not an overtly hostile environment, efforts need to be made to make LGBTQ students feel welcome in this environment, to ensure their personal and academic success.

What does a member of Chapman Safe Space do?
Chapman Safe Space members make a commitment to display a placard or button in a prominent place in their environment (office, backpack, classroom, residence hall room, etc.) so that students can easily identify a space as being safe. Members will respect people’s need for privacy and confidentiality.