Today, Tuesday 12 November, marks the start of Transgender Awareness Week, an international event to broaden awareness of transgender people by highlighting their stories and experiences.
Our University will be flying the Trans Flag on the Jubilee Plaza, Highfield Campus, for the duration of the week as well as sharing articles on SUSSED News about being transgender.
Professor Mark Spearing, Vice-President (Research and Enterprise) and our Equality, Diversity & Inclusivity Champion, will be joined by members of the Pulse LGBT+ Staff Network at 14:00 today for a short flag-raising ceremony.
The Transgender Pride flag
Transgender Awareness Week culminates with Transgender Day of Remembrance on 20 November. On this day, the Trans Flag will be flown at half-mast in respect for those whose lives have been lost through anti-transgender violence.
Our University prides itself on being a welcoming and inclusive community where people are respected, irrespective of their race, religion, gender identity, or sexual orientation. A number of organisations exist to help those looking for support with trans issues:
Pulse is the University staff & postgraduate LGBT+ network, and works in partnership with our University and other LGBT+ groups to create a safe, inclusive and diverse working environment that encourages respect and equality for all.
SUSU LGBT+ is the SUSU society for students who identify as LGBT+, as well their allies.
In addition to University networks, there are several local support groups for trans people in the Southampton area, such as Chrysalis and the Mayflower Society.
