Across the country, universities are adopting “safe spaces” for people of various gender and racial identities, and dorms for people of different ethnic backgrounds.
In Juneau, the historic Zach Gordon Teen Club now has a segregated event for teens who are black, indigenous, or persons of color — BIPOC, as it’s called. It appears to be based on the “safe space” model.
According to BestSchools.org, “Safe spaces are places reserved for marginalized individuals to come together and discuss their experiences. Marginalized groups may include women, people of color, survivors of abuse, and/or members of the LGBTQIA+ community. … Through safe spaces, colleges promote inclusion, diversity, and sensitivity among students.”
Apparently, the Zach Gordon Teen Club is taking it to heart. “BIPOC Teen Talk,” as the event is called, is just for some teens. Although not stated, it’s clear that white teens are not welcome, as it’s to be “A social gathering space for Black, Indigenous, and People (Teens) of Color (BIPOC).”
The event is sponsored by the Juneau Suicide Prevention Coalition and the Aware Shelter.
