Napa Valley College is committed to providing a campus environment that is a safe place for all students to learn and for staff to work. As a college community, we value inclusivity and respect for others. In October of 2011, the Safe Space Program was launched to support, in particular, lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBTQ) students, because of some of the unique challenges they face. Recent studies show that 70% of LGBTQ students consider leaving college during their first year because of bullying, harassment, and fear. LGBTQ youth are 4 times more likely than their straight peers to attempt suicide because of the bullying, harassment and rejection they experience.
Our Safe Space Program is based on two nationally recognized models including the Gay, Lesbian, Straight Education Network (GLSEN) and the former National Youth Advocacy Coalition programs. The foundation of our program is a comprehensive training for allies who include Napa Valley College teachers, support staff, administrators, and students. Napa Valley College offers this training nationally to colleges and universities online via Canvas.
The Safe Space logo seen on the upper right side of this page was updated in 2021. It features use of the “Gilbert Baker” font in the “Safe Space” title. Mr. Baker created the original rainbow flag in 1978 while living in San Francisco. The font was created following his passing. The logo also features the “progress flag” created by artist Daniel Quasar in 2018, which builds on the original rainbow flag created by Gilbert Baker. The black and brown stripes represent marginalized LGBTQ communities of color. The pink and light blue stripes originate from the transgender pride flag and represent non-cisgender people. The chevron represents progress and forward movement.
The goal of our program is to create a safe environment in all corners of the campus in order to promote student success throughout all of the programs offered by the college. 
All employees of Napa Valley College are encouraged to participate in the Safe Space Program. Employees can become part of the program at anytime by simply completing the required Safe Space Basic Training course and passing the end of course quiz.
The Safe Space Basic Training course is provided by the college's LGBT Education Program and is free to college employees. It is available in a face-to-face format through the Teaching and Learning Center or online using the Canvas platform.
To enroll in the online training, click the first link below. Click on "Tickets" and then look for the link in the upper right corner, "Enter Promotional Code." Be sure to enter the code for college employees to have the course fee waived.
Learn more about the Safe Space Program by clicking the links below.
Safe Space Basic Training Program
Safe Space Locations On Campus
Information For LGBTQ Students