Nov 17, 2000
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THE UNIVERSITY OF VICTORIA Nov 17, 2000 |
| A year-long investigation into the experiences of heterosexual and glbttq (gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgendered, two spirited and queer) staff, faculty and students has revealed that both “sides” experience an oppressive silence that prevents healthy dialogue. UVic women’s advisor Dr. Frances Ricks and a committee headed by research assistant Silvia Vilches found that most glbttq people report having a “pretty positive experience” at the university. However, it was also apparent that this was because a great deal of energy was spent deciding to whom, when and where to reveal their lifestyle. The research revealed that heterosexual people deal with glbttq issues regularly in professional, social and family settings. “However, dialogue on the subject is very self-censored, says Ricks. “Heterosexual participants in the study suggested that we need to move toward a solution by ‘bringing out the silent cheerleaders.’” This advice resulted in a campus-wide distribution of buttons and posters for National Coming Out Day on Oct. 11. A report titled “Creating Dialogue on a Taboo Subject” was released by the committee on the status of sexual minorities in September. For full details, contact the office of the women’s advisor at 721-6143. The committee is available for consultation and workshops. |