From UCVM's "Safe Space Campaign - Pride in Vet Med" Letter:

We are excited to launch a student-led Safe Space Initiative for members and allies of the LGBTQ+ community. Students that identify as part of the gender and sexually diverse community (LGBTQ+) and their allies have perceived a need for the creation of intentional safe spaces for students to feel welcomed and accepted. Students have created a safe space symbol that will be distributed on stickers, buttons, and as a digital file, to identify the spaces and individuals who support them (i.e. allies).

An ally is any person who speaks out and stands up for a person or group that is targeted and discriminated against. An ally works to end oppression by supporting and advocating for people who are stigmatized, discriminated against or treated unfairly. One of the most important parts of being an ally to the LGBTQ+ community is making yourself known as an ally. Making yourself visible can be as simple as displaying a sticker, button, or symbol in an email signature or presentation.

The Safe Space Initiative is designed for members of the veterinary community who wish to support LGBTQ+ people and create a safe space for all, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression.

All members of the veterinary community are invited to participate by signing up to receive a button and/or sticker to take a visible stance as an ally. To do so, please proceed to the following order form:

https://forms.gle/ttd8rGDTyKz7ggJh6

Please share this initiative with your friends and colleagues within the veterinary profession. All are welcome!

Thank you for openness, kindness, and support. Together we can create positive changes in the veterinary profession.

Sincerely,

Joy Shokeir - Kaleigh Eichel - Doug Doyle-Baker - Brock Chappell