Equal Opportunities - Diversity and inclusion
In everything it does, SUPSI aims to ensure a study and working environment that respects equal opportunities and all forms of diversity, so as to offer everyone an accessible, high-quality university education and career path. Some initiatives include, for example, the promotion of linguistic equality and the creation of inclusive spaces. We are also strengthening our commitment through measures dedicated to the equality of LGBTQIA+ people and through projects aimed at promoting the professional inclusion of people with disabilities.
SUPSI promotes communication that is sensitive to diversity and advocates the use of inclusive language for everyone, regardless of gender identity, age, background, disability, religious affiliation, etc.
Language plays a pivotal role in shaping how people are portrayed, and today it is more important than ever that it reflects reality objectively, so that everyone can feel fairly represented.
Language is not static: it evolves over time, reflecting our values and the structure of society. Furthermore, it conveys messages and should therefore be used consciously and correctly. SUPSI, aware of the dynamic nature of the Italian language, closely monitors linguistic developments with a view to finding grammatically inclusive, effective solutions that represent all people.
Valuing diversity means sending a clear signal that all professions and roles can be practised and held regardless of gender. We therefore recommend the use of gender-neutral or collective terms (‘staff’ rather than ‘male staff’ or ‘female staff’) or, in moderation, the use of passive and impersonal phrasing. Where this is not possible, or where it is relevant to mention gender, we suggest making it explicit, giving equal prominence to both male and female genders (“colleagues”). In any case, we recommend avoiding the use of the masculine form, erroneously defined as neutral, to refer to both genders.
Furthermore, whenever referring to people with disabilities, subject to specific sectoral terminology (medical, insurance, etc.), it is advisable to place the person before the disability itself, seeking to avoid the generalised use of overused and, in any case, sensitive terms such as “differently abled” or “disabled person”. We therefore recommend, in general terms, the use of the expression “person with a disability”.
Language plays a pivotal role in shaping how people are portrayed, and today it is more important than ever that it reflects reality objectively, so that everyone can feel fairly represented.
Language is not static: it evolves over time, reflecting our values and the structure of society. Furthermore, it conveys messages and should therefore be used consciously and correctly. SUPSI, aware of the dynamic nature of the Italian language, closely monitors linguistic developments with a view to finding grammatically inclusive, effective solutions that represent all people.
Valuing diversity means sending a clear signal that all professions and roles can be practised and held regardless of gender. We therefore recommend the use of gender-neutral or collective terms (‘staff’ rather than ‘male staff’ or ‘female staff’) or, in moderation, the use of passive and impersonal phrasing. Where this is not possible, or where it is relevant to mention gender, we suggest making it explicit, giving equal prominence to both male and female genders (“colleagues”). In any case, we recommend avoiding the use of the masculine form, erroneously defined as neutral, to refer to both genders.
Furthermore, whenever referring to people with disabilities, subject to specific sectoral terminology (medical, insurance, etc.), it is advisable to place the person before the disability itself, seeking to avoid the generalised use of overused and, in any case, sensitive terms such as “differently abled” or “disabled person”. We therefore recommend, in general terms, the use of the expression “person with a disability”.
In order to ensure the well-being of all staff and protect the privacy of every individual, SUPSI promotes practical measures to create inclusive spaces.
Breastfeeding rooms
Breastfeeding rooms are available at various SUPSI campuses for breastfeeding mothers.
All-gender toilets
Each SUPSI campus has at least one ‘all-gender toilet’, accessible to everyone regardless of gender identity and for those with a disability or mobility difficulties.
Women’s toiletries kits
SUPSI provides dispensers containing sanitary towels and/or tampons at its campuses, for use in situations of need and/or emergency.
Breastfeeding rooms
Breastfeeding rooms are available at various SUPSI campuses for breastfeeding mothers.
All-gender toilets
Each SUPSI campus has at least one ‘all-gender toilet’, accessible to everyone regardless of gender identity and for those with a disability or mobility difficulties.
Women’s toiletries kits
SUPSI provides dispensers containing sanitary towels and/or tampons at its campuses, for use in situations of need and/or emergency.