Safe Zone LGBTQ+ Ally Program

The Empire State Safe Zone Program is a transformative initiative dedicated to creating a safer, more inclusive environment for individuals across all sexual orientations, romantic orientations, gender identities, gender expressions, and intersections of identities. Safe Zone is a vital step in Empire's ongoing efforts to reduce homophobia, transphobia, and cisheterosexism within our institution and in our surrounding communities. The initial program was funded by a 2023 Inclusive Learning Award DEI Mini-Grant, reflecting our commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion.  

Our Mission 

The mission of Empire’s Safe Zone program is to cultivate understanding, respect, and advocacy by identifying, educating, and supporting “allies” within our community. Allies are faculty, staff, and administrators who: 

• Are committed to learning about the challenges and experiences of LGBTQIA+ individuals.
• Actively provide support and advocate for LGBTQIA+ individuals in their personal and professional capacities. 

Through Safe Zone, we aim to establish a robust network of allies who are dedicated to ongoing education and advocacy, ensuring that LGBTQIA+ communities at SUNY Empire and beyond feel valued, supported, and empowered. 

What is Safe Zone Training? 

The Empire Safe Zone training program is a 2-hour interactive session that is delivered virtually as well as in person. The training is designed to: 

• Educate participants about LGBTQIA+ identities, terminology, and experiences.
• Challenge participants to confront and address biases, including homophobia, transphobia, and cisheterosexism.
• Equip participants with the tools and strategies needed to create inclusive learning, mentoring, and advising environments. 

Participants who complete the training become part of Empire's Safe Zone network, signifying their commitment to advancing equity, inclusion, and safety for all. 

Who Can Participate? 

The Safe Zone program welcomes participation from all Empire faculty, staff, and administrators. Whether you are just beginning your journey as an ally or looking to deepen your understanding and advocacy skills, this program offers valuable insights and practical tools for supporting LGBTQIA+ communities. 

Our Team 

Dr. Brian Frederick, Safe Zone Project Coordinator/Trainer (they/them/theirs) is a queer criminologist and Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice at SUNY Empire State in Brooklyn. Brian is also the Academic Coordinator for Empire’s B.S. in Criminal Justice program. Their research focuses largely on the (sub)cultural dynamics that underpin and or shape crime, deviance and transgression committed or experienced by queer folx. In their previous role at the University of Portsmouth (England), Brian was responsible for initiating the university’s first LGBTQ+ Safe Zone project. 

Joshua (“Josh”) Boardman, Safe Zone Project Coordinator/Trainer (he/him/his) is the Director of Student Engagement at Empire State. Prior to joining Empire, Josh spent six years as a special project coordinator with the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission in Boston, where he assisted with fostering economic independence and vocational rehabilitation for people with disabilities. He also serves on Empire’s LGBTQIA+ Affinity Group. 

Both Brian and Josh have collaborated to design, deliver, and enhance the Safe Zone training experience, ensuring it meets the unique needs of Empire’s communities.  

Join Us 

Together, we can make a difference. By participating in the Safe Zone program, you are taking an essential step toward creating a campus culture where everyone feels safe, respected, and valued. 

For more information or to register for an upcoming training session, please contact Brian (brian.frederick@sunyempire.edu) or Josh (joshua.boardman@sunyempire.edu). Please also look for Safe Zone trainings during the concurrent sessions at Empire's Fall and Spring conferences. 

Thank you for supporting LGBTQIA+ equity and inclusion at Empire State University. Your advocacy and allyship help build a brighter, more inclusive future for all. 

External LGBTQ+ Resources 

Here are some links that provide diverse resources, from mental health support and legal services to educational tools and community-building programs at the local, state, and national level: