Saxion Pride

The Trans & Non-Binary Meeting Group offers a safe space for all non-cisgender staff and students. It doesn’t matter if you are trans, non-binary, non-conformist, questioning, in the closet, queer, have another gender identity, or if you don’t want to label yourself at all: you matter and you are warmly welcome to participate! There are many things our cis counterparts don’t fully understand. We organise meetings where we talk about everything relating to gender, whether it is euphoric, dysphoric, or neutral. While heavy topics certainly come up, we also talk informally about how our gender affects our everyday experiences. We also give advice to education organisers to improve well-being at Saxion.

The Trans & Non-Binary Meeting Group meets every third Tuesday of the month, from 17:30 to 19:00 at Saxion (Ko Wierenga), M. H. Tromplaan 28, 7513 AB Enschede, Room S1.74. For questions, please send an email to [email protected]. This group is a joint effort of Th!nk with Pride UT, JS&V Exaltio, and Th!nk with Pride Saxion.

At Saxion, we believe that everyone should be able to be themselves. We find it important that our students and staff can fully focus on their studies and work without having to worry about hiding their sexual orientation. Hiding who you truly are can be an obstacle to your personal growth and performance. Therefore, we invite everyone to be themselves and create an environment where everyone feels accepted and supported. We also invite everyone to come out of the ‘closet’ when it becomes too cramped.

Coming out as LGBTQIA+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex, Queer, and others) can be a challenging but also liberating experience. It is a personal journey, and how you choose to come out can vary based on your unique situation and feelings. Here are a few tips that can help you during this process.

1. Take the time you need
   You don’t have to rush. It is important to remember that you come out on your terms and when you are ready. It is a big moment, and it is important that you feel comfortable with it.
2. Build a supportive network
   Before coming out, it can be helpful to gather a supportive network around you. This can be friends, family members, or online communities that understand and accept you. Having people to talk to can be a huge support.
3. Start small
   You don’t have to tell the whole world right away that you are LGBTQ+. Maybe start with someone you trust and think will respond positively. This can help you build confidence before telling others.
4. Choose the right moment
   Timing is important. Choose a moment when you feel safe and the circumstances are favourable. This may mean waiting for a quiet moment or planning a private conversation with the person you want to tell.
5. Prepare for questions
   People may ask questions because they want to understand and support you. It can help to think about possible questions and how you want to answer them. Know that you don’t have to have all the answers and that it’s okay to say you’re still thinking about something.
6. Be prepared for different reactions
   Not everyone will respond positively or understandingly right away. Some people may need time to process it. Try to be patient and give them space to process their own emotions. At the same time, it is important to protect yourself from negative reactions and to know that it is okay to distance yourself from people who do not support you.
7. Use resources and organisations
   There are many organisations that offer help and advice to people who want to come out. These can be a source of support and can also connect you with others going through the same process.
8. Take care of yourself
   Coming out can be emotionally taxing. Don’t forget to take care of yourself during this process. This may mean taking time for yourself, engaging in activities that make you happy, or talking to someone if you feel overwhelmed.
9. Celebrate your courage
   Coming out requires courage and self-awareness. Regardless of how others react, it is important to recognise how brave you are, being true to yourself. Celebrate this moment, as it is a big step in embracing who you are.
10. Stay connected with your community
    Being part of the LGBTQ+ community can be a powerful source of support and connection. Look for local groups, events, or online platforms where you can meet others who share similar experiences. It can make a world of difference to know that you are not alone.

Conclusion
Coming out is a personal journey that is different for everyone. The most important thing is to stay true to yourself and take the time to determine what feels best for you. Whether you are ready to take the step immediately or prefer to do it step by step, remember that you are not alone and that support is always available. For questions or additional tips, you can always contact [email protected].

At Saxion, we believe that everyone should feel safe, seen, and welcome — regardless of gender identity or expression. That’s why all Saxion’s main locations offer all-gender restroom facilities. These restrooms are accessible to everyone: whether you identify as a man, a woman, non-binary, gender-fluid, or prefer not to use any label.

Why all-gender restroom facilities?
All-gender restrooms provide a safe and inclusive option for anyone who may not feel comfortable using binary-labeled facilities such as 'ladies' and 'gentlemen'. They reflect our commitment to fostering a campus environment grounded in respect, inclusion, and diversity — core values Saxion actively promotes. They also support our broader efforts around social safety and creating an inclusive learning and working environment.

At Saxion, about one third of all restroom facilities are all-gender. In addition, all locations still have separate women’s and men’s restrooms. In all cases, there is always a restroom facility of your choice nearby — often on the same floor, and otherwise just one level up or down. This way, we ensure that every student, staff member, and visitor can find a facility where they feel comfortable.