Aiming to promote inclusivity and gender sensitivity as the first point of contact for many people on all Xavier University campuses, over 33 Envisage and Right 8 security guards attended an orientation session on basic Gender and Development (GAD) concepts on 31 October 2024. The orientation session, organized by the Xavier University Gender and Development Office in partnership with the Safety, Security, and Information Office (SSIO), intended to facilitate understanding of gender and development and equip guards who often have the knowledge to handle gender-sensitive situations around the campuses. By learning about these concepts, the security guards wanted to know how to respect the members of the LGBTQ+, how to address them appropriately, what is gender, what are the differences among genders, and what are the differences between sex and gender. 

Atty Normita V Batula, a faculty member of the School of Law of Xavier University and a board member of BALAOD Mindanaw, an NGO, facilitated the session. She discussed topics such as the definition, roles, and differences of sex and gender, understanding sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, and sexual characteristics (SOGIESC), agents of socialization, manifestations of gender bias, some examples of gender-fair language, and the vision of a gender-fair society. Atty Batula highlighted the importance of understanding gender roles and biases and shared practical examples of avoiding discrimination and promoting gender sensitivity, especially in dealing with people who come in and out of the university. They were encouraged to provide a safe, welcoming environment for all employees, students, and visitors. SG Lorefie Guinayao shared that creating a gender-sensitive environment starts with each one, including respecting others’ identities and promoting a welcoming space for everyone.

As Xavier University wants everyone who comes through the gates to feel safe, respected, and valued, the guards must know how to respond more appropriately to different situations. SG Jocely Matias expressed appreciation for the training by saying they are more conscious of their role in promoting equality and recognize the importance of their influence in creating a fair and inclusive environment for everyone. SG Angelica Adug added that she left the session with a deeper understanding of how our words, actions, and attitudes can shape a more inclusive and respectful community.