The Department of Chemical Engineering is committed to ensuring that our students and staff who identify as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer + (LGBTQ+) are supported and feel comfortable and safe in our community.
Our Department EDI Training policy includes the College LGBTQ+ awareness course as one of our recommended training courses for all staff. We offer specific training for all students on LGBTQ+ nomenclature, context and significance of the issues faced by LGBTQ+ people, whether or not they decide to open in our Department. Many staff declare their preferred pronouns in their email signatures. We celebrate LGBTQ+ students, staff and alumni, and regularly host events, for example for LGBT history month celebration (25 Feb 2022, involving approx. 100 staff/students) and during Pride.
The College has a network, Imperial 600, for all LGBTQ+ staff, postgraduate students and their allies which holds events throughout the year. Imperial 600 distributes rainbow lanyards allowing college members to visibly show their support for out LGBTQ+ inclusion. Resources available on the College website giving advice for all staff on how to be an LGBTQ+ ally, a bi ally and a trans ally. Imperial features on the Stonewall Top 100 Employers List (2022), and has been recognised with a Gold Award for its commitment and efforts to become an LGBTQ+ inclusive employer.
Imperial College London and the Department of Chemical Engineering do not tolerate discrimination of any kind, including homophobia and transphobia, as detailed in the College policy. In fact, we have an unwavering commitment to nurturing our diverse, open and supporting environment, where everyone can reach their future potential.