Why not have a Positive Space Program for all oppressed groups?
Such a program would be desirable and useful. However, there is a pressing need to address sexual and gender diversity because of the relative invisibility of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and trans communities. Unlike many visible differences that lead to the harassment and discrimination of members of other groups, sexual and gender identity can be hidden. The high levels of heterosexism and transphobia in our society, and at Queen’s, persuade most lesbian, gay, bisexual, and trans people to hide this aspect of themselves. Many faculty, students, and staff live in fear of being “found out” and do not pursue scholarship, friendships, or associations that may raise suspicions about their identities. Thus, the communities become invisible, giving the erroneous appearance of few lesbian, gay, bisexual, and trans people on campus, and the issues become invisible, with only the most courageous members and allies of these groups challenging these forms of discrimination. The Positive Space Pr
