UO Reaffirms Commitment to Inclusion of All Genders and Gender Identities
We want to remind the UO community of this because there have been some troubling news reports lately about the federal administration potentially taking some kind of action in the future to narrowly define gender under the landmark legislation of Title IX.
While the federal administration has not officially commented on the issue, it is something that is creating a high level of uneasiness and distress for some of our students, faculty, and staff who identify as transgender or non-binary.
We will continue to track this issue and to remind everyone that the UO is a place where we value all people of all gender identities. Regardless of what happens at the federal level, UO leadership will always make it a priority to protect the rights of everyone in our community.
University Policy
The University of Oregon affirms and actively promotes the right of all individuals to equal opportunity in education and employment at this institution without regard to race, color, sex, national origin, age, religion, marital status, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or any other consideration not directly and substantively related to effective performance.
Federal Change in Transgender Protections will not Affect the UO
UO policy guarantees this right, which makes it clear that all of its campus community members have the right to fully and equally access its facilities and to be free from prohibited discrimination. UO policy defines prohibited discrimination to include discrimination based on sex, gender identity, gender expression, and perceived gender.
UO remains committed to providing safe and inclusive facilities to all of its campus community members including gender inclusive restrooms, changing rooms, and housing options.
Pronouns at UO
Like names, pronouns are an important part of how we identify that deserves to be respected. And we recognize that assuming someone’s gender can be hurtful, especially to members of our community who are transgender, genderqueer, or non-binary.
As a community, we are all learning together about the importance of pronouns and being better allies to the trans community on campus. We hope that you’ll join us in striving for inclusion, justice, and respect.