SimTech is truly dedicated to driving meaningful change because we believe that inclusivity and diversity are foundational to both scientific progress and societal well-being.
Holger Steeb, Director SC SimTech
November 18, designated as LGBTQ+ STEM Day, highlights the barriers faced by queer scientists, engineers, mathematicians, and technologists, while celebrating their vital role in shaping the future of innovation and discovery. The significance of this date extends beyond a single day of awareness. It marks the 60th anniversary of Frank Kameny’s Supreme Court fight against workplace discrimination - a struggle that resonates deeply in the ongoing fight for equality and inclusion in workplaces around the globe. It is also a reminder of the persistent challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ individuals in STEM:
- Hostile Work Environments
A staggering 28% of LGBTQ+ professionals have considered leaving their jobs due to workplace hostility, and the number rises to 50% for transgender and gender non-conforming physicists who report harassment in their own departments. - Career Barriers
One in three American physicists has been advised to hide their identity to advance their career, and sexual minority students are less likely to pursue academic STEM careers. - Intersectional Challenges
Members of the LGBTQIA+ community who belong to other underrepresented groups face compounded barriers, highlighting the need for systemic change.
At SimTech, we are proud to stand in solidarity with LGBTQIA+ individuals in STEM fields and to recognize their invaluable contributions, challenges, and resilience. As an interdisciplinary research community, SimTech recognizes that inclusivity drives innovation. By championing diversity and equity, we foster a collaborative environment where everyone, regardless of their identity, can thrive and contribute to solving the complex challenges of our time.
- Voices of Pride in STEM
Virtual Gallery on "Voices of Pride" in SimTech - Gallery LGBTQ+ STEM Day 18 November 2024
Pride in STEM is a global nonprofit organization founded by an independent group of LGBTQIA+ scientists and engineers. The organization’s mission is to promote diversity within STEM fields and to highlight the achievements of queer individuals in these areas. The event emphasizes that diversity is essential for strengthening innovation and driving scientific progress. https://prideinstem.org/
We invite you to join the conversation and help boost the visibility of LGBTQIA+ individuals in STEM by sharing stories, images, and insights using #LGBTSTEMDay or #LGBTQSTEMDay. Let’s celebrate the individuals who make STEM more inclusive, inspire future generations, and drive progress for all. Together, we can make STEM a space where everyone belongs.
Safe Zone Training
In April 2025, SimTech launched its Safe Zone Training initiative to foster greater awareness and understanding of LGBTQ+ topics within SimTech and across the university. These workshops aim to create a more inclusive academic and workplace environment by equipping participants with knowledge and tools to better support LGBTQ+ individuals.
Over the course of three hours, participants explore key concepts related to sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression. The training also encourages critical intersectional reflection on privilege, power dynamics, and allyship in both academic and everyday contexts.
The format is based on the American Safe Zone Project, developed by Meg Bolger and Sam Killermann. Since 2013, they have worked to raise LGBTQ+ awareness in schools, universities, and organizations, building networks of informed, visible allies who actively support marginalized communities.
Participants who complete the training receive a Safe Zone Trained sticker to display on their office doors. This sticker signals that the person behind the door is knowledgeable about LGBTQ+ issues, is committed to fostering an inclusive and respectful environment, and can serve as a first point of contact – including referring you to further appropriate and confidential support services within the university.
If you're interested in participating in an upcoming training session, please feel free to contact us.
Hiser Sedik & Patrick Barth
Pride in STEM