Principles of safer space

With our Principles of Safer Space, we seek to create an equal and open-for-all place for all to learn and work.

The Principles of Safer Space are a practical tool for the creation of a respectful and unprejudiced atmosphere. Everyone is entitled to a safe workplace or study place, where everyone can be and feel respected as who they are.

At Seinäjoki University of Applied Sciences, we pledge to promote equality and an open and respectful atmosphere. We observe the Principles of Safer Space in all our activities.

The principles of safer space of Seinäjoki University of Applied Sciences

• We avoid assumptions. With our activities and choices of words, we actively seek to avoid making assumptions on other people’s life situation, identity, health, background, skills, gender, or anything else. Everybody defines themselves and their own experience.
• We act respectfully and openly. We respect another person’s integrity and privacy, both physically and verbally. We create together a positive atmosphere encouraging learning and working; there are no right or wrong questions. It is important to respect another person’s way to participate and to recognise that there exist various ways of participating – not everybody wants to talk or to be in the limelight to the same extent.
• We intervene in disrespectful behaviour. We do not use derogatory or disparaging language, push aside or embarrass anyone with our talk, behaviour, or deeds. We do not criticise anyone’s looks or gossip. If some situation feels uncomfortable, we report it to the organiser of the event or meeting, the teacher of the course, the superior, or to another person in charge.
• We do not approve of discrimination or harassment. Anyone noticing impertinent or discriminatory behaviour shall bring it up and, if necessary, report it to the organiser of the event or meeting, the teacher of the course, the superior, or to another person in charge. Reported discrimination is always intervened in.
• We bear the responsibility for our own communication. We want to be open about different opinions and perspectives. We ourselves seek to talk and communicate in an open and intelligible manner.
• If we act wrong, we assume responsibility and apologise. We do not question another person’s experiences even if we do not agree. We pledge to observe our action critically and to constantly modify it. We receive feedback on our activities and modes of action.