Dear Hofstra Students,
As you likely heard, the U.S. Department of Justice just rescinded protections for transgender students that had directed schools in 2016 to treat trans students according to their own gender identities. I write to assure you that this will not impact Hofstra's commitment to our culture of inclusivity and respect for all members of our community.
We have strong and long-standing anti-discrimination policies to protect us from unlawful discrimination and harassment, like our Student Policy Prohibiting Discriminatory Harassment, Relationship Violence, and Sexual Misconduct and University Harassment Policy. We affirm the gender identities of all community members; students may use restrooms, locker rooms, and other facilities consistent with their gender identity. Any form of discrimination and/or harassment on the basis of gender identity, or any other identity, should be reported to the resources listed below. In addition, New York State's protections for the transgender community remain in effect.
We embrace policies and practices that demonstrate a commitment to equity for our transgender/gender non-conforming community members. The Hofstra 2015-2017 LGBTQ+ Task Force assessed and audited the Hofstra community by focusing on "opportunities for, support of, and presence of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Questioning, Intersex, and Allied persons and programs." Last week its recommendations were given to the President's Cabinet; as Co-Chairs of the Task Force, the Provost and I will work to assure they are all addressed.
We live our values in regards to gender identity inclusivity. Last month, we issued a statement publicly opposing North Carolina's state law, HB2, which discriminates against the LGBTQ+ community. Hofstra affirms its commitment to protecting the civil rights of all and dedicates itself toward diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts.
On behalf of the University and our Division of Student Affairs, I assure you that our transgender/gender non-conforming faculty, students, and staff are valued members of our Hofstra community.
With Pride,
W. Houston Dougharty
Vice President of Student Affairs
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