CDU’s Ally network supports LGBTQIA staff and students

Charles Darwin University (CDU) continues to commit to providing an inclusive and respectful environment for LGBTIQIA+ staff and students with more than 100 staff members signing up to the University’s Ally Network in its first year.

Launched in May 2021, CDU’s Ally Network equips CDU staff members with the skills and expertise to understand sexual and gender diversity as well as the challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ people.

Allies are based across all CDU campuses and provide safety, a friendly face and a supportive ear to any students or staff that may have any concerns.

CDU has introduced online training for all staff to access to better support CDU staff members to better understand LGBTQIA + inclusion, which it will also deliver face-to-face in the coming months.

It comes as CDU staff and students today attended International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Interphobia and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT) activities to celebrate LGBTQIA+ people globally and raise awareness for the work that still needs to be done.

CDU Deputy Vice-Chancellor Students and VET said CDU’s ally network was a part of the University’s commitment to building a diverse CDU community with pride.

“Our allies are based across CDU campuses in the Northern Territory, and they offer a friendly face and supportive ear to any students or staff that may want to have a chat,” Mx Jacob said.

“Becoming an ally gives staff a chance to put their hand up for equality and work to make CDU a better place for LGBTQIA+ people to learn and work.

“Our aim is to achieve inclusion, equality and acceptance in our community, so that all our LGBTQIA+ students, staff, family and friends can feel at home.”

CDU Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Consultant Daniel O’Neill said students and staff can identify those who are a part of the Ally Network in the CDU community with their visible rainbow flags and lanyards.

“This visually provides a sense of safety and support to members of our student and staff LGBTIQ+ community, knowing they have a trusted ally that they can reach out to, if ever they need to,” Mr O’Neill said. 

“We are all active agents of cultural change, and we impact our culture and community with every interaction.

“We are all responsible for creating and maintaining our inclusive culture here at CDU, every day.  It is a privilege to play a part in creating a more inclusive space at CDU.”

An IDAHOBIT Day Morning Tea organised by CDU Queer Network (Student Group) was held across all campuses including Katherine, Casuarina, Alice Springs and the Waterfront campuses.