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“I carry my identity in every space at UOW”

“I carry my identity in every space at UOW”

Aurora Green on gender, sex and sexuality diverse inclusion at UOW

The ý of ý (UOW) Student Advisory Council (SAC) was formed in May 2018 to provide the ý of ý greater ability to hear and respond to the wider student voice.

Aurora Green, a Bachelor of Social Work student at UOW, is the SAC’s LGBTIQ+ representative, and explained that representing her community within UOW is crucial.

“I was really passionate about getting involved with the SAC because of my experiences as a transwoman. I started my transition in a small country town, and as such, many discussions were needed to encourage mature consideration of myself and the LGBTIQ+ community more broadly,” she said.

Ms Green said she joined the SAC to share her own experience in an educational way, and give a voice to students who are gender, sex, and sexuality diverse.

“I carry my identity into every space at UOW I involve myself in, and often find conversations where considering the LGBTIQ+ Community is important, but not always in an obvious way,” she said.

“Without someone voicing their LGBTIQ+ experience, this can potentially create blind spots affecting far too many students and create unnecessary challenges that complicate LGBTIQ+ student’s wellbeing.

It is so important for me to have my voice heard - to know that I’m playing some part in encouraging UOW to address potential challenges for LGBTIQ+ students, while commemorating LGBTIQ+ identities.”

UOW has received consistent recognition over the past three years for its commitment to inclusion and diversity as an institution.

Ms Green hopes to see the evolution of LGBTIQ+ presence and visibility throughout the university over the coming years.

“I hope to see greater student involvement in UOW activities that commemorate pride in being LGBTIQ+ to enhance student wellbeing. Hopefully as a student or graduate, I get to see greater visibility of LGBTIQ+ students taking an active role themselves to facilitate inclusion and continued progress at UOW.”