QISA General Policy
With consideration to the nature of our organization that allows us to thrive, embrace our identities, and create a safe space for all of our LGBTQIA+ siblings, we would like to outline our general policy to make sure everyone feels safe and respected. ♥️
1) Absolutely No Hate Speech or Bullying
"The term hate speech is understood as any kind of communication in speech, writing or behaviour, that attacks or uses pejorative or discriminatory language with reference to a person or a group on the basis of who they are, in other words, based on their religion, ethnicity, nationality, race, colour, descent, gender or other identity factor. This is often rooted in, and generates intolerance and hatred and, in certain contexts, can be demeaning and divisive" (United Nations)
QISA is a safe space, and what you say, write, or share must make sure everyone feels safe. Bullying of any kind isn't allowed, and degrading comments about things like race, religion, culture, age, class, disability, sexual orientation, romantic orientation, gender, or identity will not be tolerated.
2) No Promotions, Unapproved Advertising, or Spam
Self-promotion, spam, and irrelevant links disseminated via QISA aren't allowed. Please contact us (via the contact page or chatbox) if you would like to advertise a product or promote an event (specifically LGBTQIA+ or community-related) within the group.
3) Respect Everyone's Privacy
Being part of QISA, attending our events, or being a part of some of our in-person or digital spaces requires mutual trust. Authentic, expressive discussions make groups great, but may also be sensitive and private. What's shared in the group should stay in the group.
4) Be Mindful of What You Say, Do, and/or Share
This is a community of people of all ages and spectrums of life. The Institute is also an extremely diverse space, and that is something we cherish about our community. Even if something may not be offensive to you, your culture, your religion, or identity does not mean it will not be to someone else. Please be mindful of this. If you are unsure, it is always okay to ask. This is a learning and growing space.
5) No Requests for Donations
QISA supports various charities and fundraising initiatives supporting lgbtq+ needs; however, we are a student initiative and can only allocate our funds to GISA-related or Institute-related events, projects, etc. If it is a concern of philanthropy, please contact us.
6) Sensitive Topics, Conversations, and Trigger Warnings
A Trigger warning is a statement made prior to sharing and talking about potentially disturbing (i.e. triggering) content, used to prevent exposing someone with past trauma, to something that might insight an emotional/ mental reaction. This is especially important if you are sharing or discussing sensitive or personal content or photos. Please be aware and conscious of this, and if you are unsure, ask an older member or mentor about what may potentially be triggering material or conversations.
If you are in immediate danger, please contact 112. If you would like guidance regarding local resources, please contact us. We will list a few hotlines based in Switzerland. More can also be found on our resources page.
National Suicide & Crisis Lines
- La Main Tendue: 143
- PARSPAS: 41 (0) 27 321 21 21
LGBTQ+ Hotline: 0800 133 133
AIDS & Sexual Health
- 044 255 37 76
- 044 255 11 11
Domestic & Sexual Violence
- Dargeborene Hand (crisis helpline): 143
- "End Human Trafficking Now!" & "Friends of Humanity"
- 24/7 hotline: 41 22 80 707 62
- National: 044 436 90 00