Here you will get information about the LGBTQ+ staff network at NTNU.

Norwegian version - LGBTQ-nettverket på NTNU

What is the LGBTQ+ staff network?

The aim of the LGBTQ+ staff network is to be a resource for the rich diversity of LGBTQ+-identifying employees across NTNU. We want to provide a welcoming and supportive environment for everyone who self-identifies as part of the LGBTQ+ community, regardless of your sexuality or gender identification and irrespective of whether you are ‘out’ in the wider world, as well as allies.

What does LGBTQ+ stand for?

LGBTQ+ stands for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer. There is a large variety of identity categories that fall into the group of those who violate gender and identity norms, which means that the number of letters that must be used to include all, becomes too long and is replaced by "+".

What are our goals?

The network exists to support the LGBTQ+ employee community at NTNU. Our specific goals are to

• provide a way for LGBTQ+ staff to get to know each other through social events, particularly our annual pride parade
• serve as a point of contact for LGBTQ+ staff who are new to NTNU and Trondheim
• provide information about LGBTQ+-relevant events at NTNU, and about the LGBTQ+ communities in Trondheim
• raise awareness and the visibility of LGBTQ+ issues across NTNU at an institutional level

Who are we?

The Network comprises members from all staff groups from across departments and campuses of NTNU. If you are an NTNU employee, including PhD students and administrative staff, you are eligible to join. The network itself is staffed by a team of volunteers, who work with partner organizations to achieve our shared goals.

We are always looking for more volunteers, so if you have a passion for enhancing NTNU’s support for the LGBTQ+ community, or you simply like arranging and coordinating social events, please get in contact with us at lgbtq@folk.ntnu.no.

How do I join?

If you would like to be added to our mailing list, simply send a quick email to lgbtq@folk.ntnu.no from your NTNU email address. The network also operates a Facebook group in order to provide an open forum for discussion and to allow members to pass on news of events and campaigns. In order to ensure anonymity, the Facebook group is closed to non-members. When you join our mailing list, you will automatically receive an invitation to join our Facebook group.

Please use your ntnu email address to contact us so we can be sure you are part of the university.

I’m not LGBTQ+, but I’d still like to get involved

LGBTQ+ allies are welcome in the network. We would also like to refer you to the guidance by Stonewall UK about how to support LGBTQ+ equality at work.

Who are our NTNU partner institutions?

While there are a number of institutions who we collaborate with, these institutions also have their own profiles and goals, which we encourage you to explore:

• GenderHub
• Dion - The interest organization for doctoral candidates at NTNU
• Committee for equality and diversity (in Norwegian)
• Queer Students Trondheim

What about the LGBTQ+ community in Trondheim?

Trondheim, although being Norway’s 3rd largest city, can feel small with a modest social infrastructure for LGBTQ+ people. Nevertheless, there are LGBTQ+ places and spaces that are definitely worth checking out, including:

• ME nightclub (in Norwegian)
• Skeiv ungdom Trøndelag – for those under 30 (in Norwegian)

Norway has an active online LGBTQ+ community:

• Gaysir (in Norwegian)

There is also a magazine about LGBTQ+-issues:

• Blikk (in Norwegian)

Living in Norway has gathered LGBT rescourses in Norway.

Anything else I should know?

Moving to a new country can be a daunting experience, particularly so if you’re LGBTQ+. If you’ve just arrived and feel overwhelmed, or a bit lonely and you’d fancy a chat, do get in contact with us. We’re here to help!