LGBTQ+ and Trans Ally Training

We offer LGBTQ+ and Trans Ally Training to the NIU and DeKalb communities. Participants learn how to be effective allies to people who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender (trans) and/or queer. You can attend if you're an NIU student or faculty/staff member, or a member of the local community.

By joining our network of allies, you help show that respect for LGBTQ+ people is part of NIU's commitment to diversity.

Registration

We offer LGBTQ+ and Trans Ally Training sessions throughout the year. You must complete LGBTQ+ Ally Training before registering for Trans Ally Training.

We add upcoming sessions to our event calendar. When a session becomes available, you can register by filling out a registration form. Sessions are limited to 20 people.

LGBTQ+ Ally Training

In this two-part training, you'll learn about the experiences and concerns of LGBTQ+ people. You'll also learn about resources available on campus and in the community. After you complete the training, you'll:

• Sign an agreement outlining your responsibilities as an ally
• Receive an NIU ally sign to identify yourself as a supporter of the LGBTQ+ community
• Be eligible to attend Trans Ally Training

Trans Ally Training

Once you've completed LGBTQ+ Ally Training, we'll email you information about registering for Trans Ally Training.

Trans Ally Training builds on the knowledge of LGBTQ+ identities and allyship you gained in LGBTQ+ Ally Training. By providing a deeper understanding of trans identities, it will help you become an effective ally to the trans community at NIU and beyond. You'll receive a trans ally endorsement on your NIU ally sign.

The Role of an Ally

In our training sessions, you'll learn about the role of an ally. An ally's responsibilities can include:

• Integrating LGBTQ+ people into activities and services
• Adapting programs to be welcoming to the LGBTQ+ population
• Providing support to LGBTQ+ people and guiding them to campus and community resources
• Offering a respectful environment for discussions related to sexual orientation or gender identity