Allies Program

TCU Allies is a support organization designed to create a safe, open-minded atmosphere on campus for all students -- gay, bi, straight, or transgendered. Allies are TCU faculty and staff who have completed the Allies training program, declaring their desire to combat homophobia and educate the campus community about the realities of life for GLBT persons.

Why do we need Allies? For many students, the presence of allies to whom they can turn for support — or even the simple knowledge that allies exist — can be a big factor in developing a positive sense of self, building community, coping with bias, and improving campus climate. Allies are meant to be a visible presence of faculty and staff who can help to shape a campus culture that is accepting of all people, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, or any other difference.

There are a significant number of GLBT students at TCU, many of them closeted by the discrimination and homophobia they experience on campus. The Allies Program aims not only to provide tangible safe space, but also to demonstrate that the university acknowledges and supports its GLBT students.

Allies can be identified by their sticker (see the image above). The sticker stands out as an affirmation of GLBT people, and lets others know that the person displaying the sticker is safe to approach for support and guidance.