Trinity College Launches Safe Zones Project
for Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender Students

HARTFORD, Conn., March 30 – Gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender students often experience isolation and loneliness because of their difficulty in identifying those who are empathetic and supportive. Recognizing this problem, Trinity has created the Safe Zones Project, at the center of which is the identification of individuals who will provide information and a safe haven for gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender members of the College community.

"For members of this population, locating the simplest of information regarding support services can be logistically difficult because open networks, directories, and resources are not always clearly identified," said Laura Lockwood, director of the Trinity College Women’s Center and trainer for the Safe Zones Project. "With Safe Zones, people in search of support and information will know exactly where to turn."

Following an intensive training, several Trinity faculty and staff members have been given "Safe Zone" stickers to display in their offices. The stickers identify them to members of the gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender community as people who have accepted the responsibility of providing information and support.

The goal of the program is to build a more welcoming and supportive environment for the gay community and reduce any fear of discrimination or hostility within the Trinity College community.

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