A message for transgender, non-binary and gender diverse students
Monday, 27 March 2023
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Deputy Vice-Chancellor Professor Braden Hill.
You will notice from 27 March that the trans flag is flying at our Edith Cowan University campuses. This is a small but important demonstration of our support to the trans and gender diverse community.
Over the past week, media and social commentary has highlighted harmful and distressing views that are disrespectful, offensive, transphobic, and racist.
We understand that members of our community may be affected by this, and we want to reinforce that there is NO place at ECU for homophobia, biphobia, transphobia, or racism.
Everyone deserves the opportunity to be themselves, express their identity, find community, and celebrate their joy.
In a world that is not always accepting or understanding, we need to come together and ensure trans, gender diverse and non-binary staff and students feel safe and supported to do so, should they wish to.
Don’t hesitate to reach out to Psychological Counselling Support, or use the Out of Hours Crisis Line.
QLife is another option. Q-Life provides Australia-wide anonymous, LGBTI peer support and referral for people wanting to talk about a range of issues including sexuality, identity, gender, bodies, feelings, or relationships. Available as phone or web chat.
There are also great resources for tackling cyber-bullying available from the E-safety Commissioner website. While TransFolk of WA is a local organisation that supports transgender people and their families.
If you have experienced an incident, you can read more information about reporting here or reach out to a University Contact Officer for further guidance on your reporting options.vIf you are in immediate danger, please get in touch with Security on 9306 3333.
We are all here to support you through this challenging time.
Professor Braden Hill
Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Students, Equity and Indigenous