How to get “Gender Identity or Expression” Included in Non-Discrimination Policies

This resource guide from the Lambda 10 Project helps institutions of higher education and work spaces to protect transgender students and members from discrimination through inclusion within policy change.

Steps for changing non-discrimination policy

• Identify the key decision makers at each step of the process
• Educate these decision makers and other important administrators (the directors of
Human Resources, Student Activities, Judicial Affairs, Residence Life,
Recreational Sports, etc.) about transphobia and the experiences of transgender
students
• Decide what arguments will work best with different decision makers (an important
student need, a human rights issue, keeping up with peer institutions, in line with
state and/or city ordinances)
• Involve as many transgender students, staff, faculty, and alumni as possible
• Find ways to involve individuals who may not be open about being transgendered
in the process at their comfort level
• Educate and involve LGB/LGBT student groups as well as faculty/staff and alumni
groups as advocates
• Identify and cultivate influential allies (student leaders, administration officials,
deans, department chairs, etc.)
• Seek resolutions of support from the student government, faculty senate, staff
council, and diversity committees
• Anticipate possible questions and concerns (such as someone who appears male
in a women’s bathroom or locker room) and be prepared to respond to them
• Turn to other people working in this area as needed