Building local networks to support 2SLGBTQIA+ people through their academic journey

Sexually and gender diverse people are underrepresented in academia. This lack of diversity is partially explained by educational spaces being often uncomfortable/unsafe for 2SLGBTQIA+ people due to normalized or institutional aggressions, forcing them to hide their identities or drop out. We advocate that local-scale networks are important to support 2SLGBTQIA+ people in academia. Networks can provide safe spaces, services, discussions, and social events, favoring the permanence of 2SLGBTQIA+ people in academia. These networks can be organized by mirroring other groups, while people in administrative or leadership positions can support it by providing resources, creating diversity committees, and educating themselves.