Open Letter of Support for Our Trans Community
Minneapolis College Community,
Over the past few months, an unprecedented amount of anti-trans legislation has swept across the nation. Of the 170+ proposed bills this year, nearly 20+ have targeted the trans and LGBATQIA+ Community. This level of profiling is disturbing and does not align with the ideals of equity and inclusivity that we strive to promote here at Minneapolis College.
Acts such as classifying gender-affirming care as a form of child abuse and other such legislation, not only invalidates the humanity of members of the trans community, it further isolates them and makes them more susceptible to acts of sexual discrimination and sexual assault. Students who are members of the trans community are impacted by these acts at disproportionate rates. This often leads to attempts of suicide, with many succeeding.
We spend a significant amount of time acknowledging our pursuit of becoming an anti-racist institution. However, I want to take this moment to affirm the identity and existence of our students, faculty and staff who are members of our LGBTQIA+ communities. Minneapolis College remains unwavering in our commitment to being a campus that promotes inclusive excellence through intentionally acknowledging and supporting the lived experience and existence of all identities.
Understanding that these continue to be trying and difficult times for many members of our historically marginalized and disadvantaged communities, I want to make sure that you are aware of the following campus and community resources that are available to you:
- Minneapolis College Support Services
- National Alliance on Mental Illness Minnesota
- Suicide Prevention Hotline: 800-273-8255
- Suicide Prevention Supports
- LGBTQ+ student group: contact Heidi Aldes
In addition to the resources above, you can reach out to equityandinclusion@minneapolis.edu and we can connect you with someone on campus.
Sincerely,
Trumanue Lindsey, Jr
Vice President of Equity & Inclusion