Wear it Purple 2022 - Human Library (Geelong Waterfront)

Deakin University is strongly committed to the principles of social justice and fairness in education and employment.The Diversity, Equity and Inclusion unit manages a range of programs designed to nurture a university culture that supports diversity and improves opportunities for people from all backgrounds to access education and achieve their full potential.

Deakin University, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Join Diversity, Equity and Inclusion and the Deakin University Library,  for The Human Library. Browse the collection of books below.

Deakin Library Geelong Waterfront

<h2>Querying / Queering the library </h2><h3>Hero Macdonald (They/Them)</h3><p>When I was growing up, libraries were always magical places full of ideas and potential. As I got older, I started to get more interested in the politics of knowledge and the role of libraries in both challenging and reinforcing the dominant/majority culture. Libraries at their core are all about equity and inclusion, about democratising access to information. But they are also complex, political places. Whose stories get told and who’s voices do we hear? Whose stories are we missing? How do we describe and think about knowledge? How does that reinforce particular ways of knowing and thinking about the world? And who does that include and exclude? </p><p>As Deakin’s University Librarian, I am committed to embedding diversity and inclusion at the heart of what we do and how we work. As an openly non-binary and queer senior staff member at Deakin, I want to create an environment where diversity is normalised, and where staff and students feel safe and supported to live their authentic selves.  </p><p>I am very grateful for the wonderful and diverse rainbow community that I am a part of and that has shaped me. </p>

<h2>Well, You Know Where I Am… </h2><h3>Stephen Simpson (He/Him/His)</h3><p>Wear It Purple Day is an amazing chance for us to highlight, support and celebrate the diversity of young people within the LGBTIQ+ community but it is also an opportunity for us to reflect on our own relationship with the strength and vulnerability pride often requires. </p><p>I believe I have a story which should be shared. There is often an expectation for us to be 'sorted’ by our forties or at least have the strength and tools to feel comfortable in our skins. In my experience with few LGBTIQ+ connections in a regional setting uncertainty and isolation always threatens to be present. Let's throw in the events of the last couple of years and it is clear we need each other as much as ever. </p><p>I believe in and have much hope for the LGBTIQ+ community which is why I strive to be a champion for all. That is how I find strength and inspiration. Young people will always benefit from the experiences of those willing to pass on what they have learned. Our stories are all our stories and I hope to always feel confident to share mine. There is much for us to gain.          </p>

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