Nebraska State College System approves transgender policy changes
WAYNE, Neb. (KLKN) – On November 11th during the Nebraska State College System Board of Trustees Meeting, the Anti-Harassment/Discrimination Policy (5007) and the Chosen Name and Gender Identity Policy (5012) were both passed in a 4 to 2 vote despite recent criticism from Governor Ricketts.
According to a letter written by Governor Ricketts, “Adopting the proposed policies would impose gender ideology on Nebraska State College campuses by discouraging teachers and students to speak freely and act in accordance with science and their judgments about the biologically determined nature of males and females”
In typical meetings, 7 members decide on policy votes; however, Matt Bloomstedt was absent from this meeting for unspecified reasons.
Board members who voted in favor of the proposed policy changes were: John Chaney, Gary Bieganski, Carter “Cap” Peterson, and Marjean Terrell.
Board members who voted in opposition to the proposed policy changes were: Bob Engles, and Jess Zeiss.
“It is the policy of the Board to provide a workplace free of tensions involving matters which do not relate to the System’s business. In particular, an atmosphere of tension created by unlawful discrimination or harassment does not belong in the workplace.” A policy document regarding policies 5007 and 5012 outlines. “Discrimination and harassment based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, age, marital status, national origin, and any other categories protected by relevant federal, state, or local law are unlawful and prohibited by the Board.”
Both policies aim to create a respectful and inclusive working environment for all employees while mitigating workplace harassment and discrimination. New policies will take effect at Chadron, Peru, and Wayne State Colleges.
