The University of Minnesota is potentially going to punish students and teachers for improper use of gender pronouns. The policy is still under consideration and includes a punishment up to expulsion or firing.
The outlandish policy is titled; “Equity and Access: Gender Identity, Gender Expression, Names and Pronouns”—members of the academic institution “are expected to use the names, gender identities, and pronouns specified to them by University members.”
Also, the policy not only outlines punishments for improper use of gender pronouns; but also includes verbiage that would allow students to use school facilities such as dormitories and restrooms that they see fit, rather than what aligns with their biological identity.
“Individuals may access gender-specific facilities that correspond with their gender identities and may participate in University activities and programs consistent with their gender identities including, but not limited to, housing, restrooms, locker rooms, recreation services and activities, and camp programs,” the proposal reads.
“Individuals will not be required to use gender-specific facilities that are inconsistent with their gender identities or to use gender-inclusive options because their sex assigned at birth or sex listed on legal documents differs from their gender identity or gender expression,” the draft continues.
The University’s reasoning behind the drafted policy is to support “transgender and gender nonconforming” individuals on campus and to “maintain an environment for University members that is free from discrimination, harassment, and retaliation based on gender identity and gender expression.”
The policy also outlines all punishments which can occur should a “transgender and gender nonconforming” individual feel as though they are being discriminated against.
“Discrimination or harassment based on gender identity or gender expression may result in appropriate responsive action, including but not limited to disciplinary action up to and including termination from employment and academic sanctions up to and including academic expulsion,” the draft reads.
The outlandish policy outlines that a “transgender and gender nonconforming” individual can room with someone of the opposite biological gender which will create an environment that is the exact opposite of what the aim is.
Furthermore, as per the policy, should the individual who is forced to room with “transgender and gender nonconforming” individual feel uncomfortable and desire to change rooms, it would be treated as discrimination.