TW: S**c*d* and transphobia.

According to the National Library for Medicine, 82% of transgender individuals have considered committing suicide, and 40% have attempted. The article continues that "school belonging" is one of the top factors influencing whether or not trans young people attempt suicide. 

Southern Adventist University has continually shown discrimination, transphobia, and homophobia to the Queer community on their campus. As of April 12, 2022, the SAU Accent released an article stating that the updated Sexual Integrity Policy, including a transgender clause, has been passed by the school and is in legal review before being implemented. This clause states that trans students are required to dress as their assigned gender at birth (AGAB), use AGAB restrooms, play on AGAB sports teams, and live in AGAB housing. In a meeting with Sexual Integrity Committee chair, Alan Parker, it was communicated that housing would be on a "case-by-case basis," yet the policy indicates there are only exceptions for medically diagnosed Intersex individuals. 

Please consider signing this petition to remove the transgender clause from SAU's Sexual Integrity Policy, as it is transphobic and increases the risk of trans suicide on campus. In addition, this policy is a stepping stone to the removal of trans and other queer students from SAU's campus. In a time when the state of Tennessee is passing more and more anti-trans legislation, this petition is more important than ever.