We the signed are disappointed and dismayed by Spring Arbor University's recent actions to receive exemption from the following portions of Title IX:

• 34 CFR Section 106.31(b)(4)
• 34 CFR Section 106.21(b)(iii)
• 34 CFR Section 106.21(c)
• 34 CFR Section 106.57
• 34 CFR Section 106.40
• 34 CFR Section 106.51(a) and (b)(6)
• 34 CFR Section 106.32
• 34 CFR Section 106.33
• 34 CFR Section 106.41

These exemptions allow Spring Arbor University freedom in “discriminating in discipline, admissions, hiring, and employment decisions, in matters such as employment leaves for pregnancy, childbirth, and elective termination of pregnancy, or on the basis of pre-marital sex, unmarried pregnancy, extramarital sex, or homosexual activity” (Letter from Dr. Brent Ellis, President of Spring Arbor University to US Department of Education Assistant Secretary Catherine Lhamon, dated June 2, 2014).

Policies like this alienate and hurt many, while simultaneously failing to produce anything positive. Beyond being discriminative, such actions also conflict with Spring Arbor University's claimed dedication to develop life-long learners. By refusing to admit students that bring more diversity to campus, they oppress current students from having the opportunity to engage in meaningful, thoughtful, loving dialogue with anyone that might challenge their perspective, cause them to investigate further and sharpen their own opinions and beliefs. True life-long learners thrive to be exposed to opinions outside their own.

With these exemptions, Spring Arbor University is institutionalizing discrimination.We join together to support the students, faculty, staff, and alumni that these policies target. Regardless of our individual religious beliefs, together we are standing on the side of love.