University of Oulu has a large LGBTQ+ community – student well-being deserves attention
According to a survey conducted by Nyyti ry, most LGBTQ+ students feel safe at their higher education institution. However, many also report having witnessed discrimination and experiencing a fear of discrimination that affects their daily lives. The survey, carried out in late 2024, gathered responses from 612 LGBTQ+ students across Finland. The Student Barometers also revealed that LGBTQ+ students belonging to multiple minority groups reported significantly lower levels of well-being compared to others.
The use of preferred names and inclusive language is important
In Nyyti ry’s survey, LGBTQ+ students reported experiencing minority-related joking, dismissal of personal experiences, misgendering, and the lack of visible diversity in teaching materials. Pia Niilonen, Chair of Ooka ry, and Ilta Pirttilahti, Vice Chair, stress that the survey results bring to light several important concerns. "For LGBTQ+ students, it can be difficult to be seen as themselves in teaching. One contributing factor is the lack of a system that allows the use of preferred names at the University of Oulu," Niilonen and Pirttilahti point out. Ooka representatives are particularly concerned about the privacy and also safety of students belonging to gender minorities in situations where their legal name does not match their gender identity, and the use of a preferred name is not supported due to rigid systems.
Fortunately, there are effective practices that support safe learning environments and sensitive interactions. LGBTQ+ students who responded to Nyyti ry’s survey emphasised concrete solutions: inclusive communication, safer space principles, and better recognition of gender diversity in everyday practices. Niilonen and Pirttilahti share this perspective and suggest the following: “Teachers and other staff can show support by actively asking for and using students’ preferred names and correct pronouns. It is important to adopt inclusive, community-building language in teaching and in learning materials—for example, by challenging assumptions about women and men. Instead of 'he/she', the singular 'they' can be used when a person’s gender is unknown.”
The diversity, equity and inclusion page on the Oulu.fi website offers tips for responsible interaction and inclusive language. The university's Equality and Diversity Committee has also compiled an editable slide set on the topic, which is suitable for use at the beginning of a course, for example, as a shared activity.
“It is great that the University of Oulu has adopted visible symbols of solidarity, such as rainbow lanyards. Genuine allyship is, however, built through proactive efforts and the continuous development and enforcement of inclusive practices“, Niilonen and Pirttilahti highlight.
Happy Oulu Pride Week – and welcome to join the Oulu Pride Parade!
More information and links to the mentioned surveys can be found on Nyyti ry’s website.