LGBTQIA+ at the HPS-IRPA Conference

The mission of the Health Physics Society (HPS) requires an “open and diverse environment, free of bias and intimidation, and built on dignity and mutual respect for all participants.” As such – and in recognition of the past, current, and future contributions of LGBTQIA+ individuals to the science and profession of health physics – HPS is dedicated to providing a safe, welcoming, and productive experience for everyone participating in the 2024 HPS/IRPA Conference.

While Florida and Rosen Shingle Creek - the specific conference space selected for the IRPA 16 Conference – are beautiful, the political environment in Florida poses some unique challenges to LGBTQIA+ attendees. We are aware of these challenges and have taken a number of steps to ensure the safety of LGBTQIA+ attendees at the 2024 conference:

• We have spoken with the conference center and hotel and ensured they are welcoming and inclusive spaces.
• Gender neutral and family restrooms are located nearby conference spaces in addition to other restrooms.
• HPS maintains a Respectful Behavior Policy for all HPS events, including conferences, which provides mechanisms to report harassment or misconduct. This policy, which can be found HERE, explicitly protects gender identity and expression and sexual orientation.

Additionally, we have identified a number of queer-owned businesses near the conference center. A list of these businesses can be found HERE, along with an embedded map showing their locations. The HPS is also working to enhance the inclusivity of conferences in the future. Stay tuned for more with respect to the 2025 Conference in Madison, WI, and beyond!