Dear LCC Colleagues,
This week, November 13 - 19, marks Transgender Awareness Week, culminating in Transgender Day of Remembrance today on November 20, which honors the memory of those lost to anti-transgender violence.
At a time when transgender people across the nation face increasing hostility and harmful legislation, Lane reaffirms its commitment to ensuring that every transgender and gender-diverse member of our community is welcomed, protected, and supported. While we recognize the pain and fear this moment may bring for many, we also remain steadfast in cultivating a campus where transgender joy, identity, and community can thrive.
This week, I invite you to explore the many ways to learn, support, and engage: connect with our Gender & Sexuality Alliance or Gender Equity Center; check out books, films, and resources on transgender and LGBTQ+ experiences through our library; or spend time with powerful stories and advocacy tools from GLAAD and the Human Rights Campaign.
As we learn and reflect this week, it’s also important to highlight the resources that help ensure our campus remains welcoming and accessible. Our campus map includes the locations of gender-neutral restrooms, ensuring that all members of our community have access to facilities that meet their needs. The Gender Equity Center also offers a range of supports for students, employees, and allies seeking connection or guidance.
Our commitment to nondiscrimination on the basis of gender identity is grounded in our College’s Mission, Values, and Strategic Directions, as well as the Oregon Equality Act. If you have a concern, please do report it through our bias reporting tool through the College's website. We take all feedback seriously as part of our ongoing commitment to building a safe and welcoming community for everyone.
Thank you for joining me in honoring, supporting, and uplifting our transgender and gender-diverse community this week and throughout the year.
Sincerely,
Stephanie