Media Advisory: Wake Forest University faculty adopt resolution against HB2
This afternoon, faculty in the undergraduate College at Wake Forest University voted to adopt the following resolution relating to House Bill 2 (HB2):
“The faculty of Wake Forest College at Wake Forest University oppose North Carolina House Bill 2, enacted on March 23, 2016, which is contrary to our University-wide commitment to diversity and inclusion. The law specifically prevents cities from legally protecting sexual and gender minorities from discrimination, while also preventing transgender people from accessing public restrooms safely. The faculty believe that the bill will negatively affect our current LGBTQ faculty, administrators and students and their friends and family and may negatively affect recruitment of faculty, administrators and students. In addition, as the law prohibits K-12 public schools and publicly-funded universities and colleges in North Carolina from having multi-stall, multi-sex bathrooms, it could jeopardize federal funding for the schools attended by many of our family members, friends and neighbors. Thus, we urge our local government officials to take an active stand against the law, and we urge the North Carolina General Assembly and the Governor to repeal House Bill 2.”
The resolution is the latest show of support for the LGBTQ community and demonstration of Wake Forest’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity everywhere.
On March 24, more than 200 Wake Forest students, faculty, staff and alumni gathered for a moment of solidarity on the steps of Wait Chapel hosted by the Wake Forest’s LGBTQ Center. On March 25, Wake Forest University issued an official statement in response to HB2:
“Wake Forest University’s commitment to diversity and inclusion remains unwavering and our non-discrimination statement includes protection for gender identity and sexual orientation. The new law does not apply to private institutions and will not impact Wake Forest’s employment practices, educational programs or campus activities in any way. Wake Forest underscores its commitment to creating an inclusive environment for all members of the University community as well as visitors to our campus.”
About Wake Forest University:
Wake Forest University combines the best traditions of a small liberal arts college with the resources of a large research university. Founded in 1834, the school is located in Winston-Salem, N.C. The University’s graduate school of arts and sciences, divinity school, and nationally ranked schools of law, medicine and business enrich our intellectual environment. Learn more about Wake Forest University at www.wfu.edu.
