I am writing this petition as a concerned member of the City University of New York (CUNY) community who has personally faced discrimination based on gender identity and disability at CUNY Baruch. Despite my repeated efforts to address these issues, they have been systematically denied and ignored. I am not alone in this struggle; many others within our university community experience similar forms of discrimination, and it is time for action.

Currently, CUNY's anti-discrimination policy falls short of fully reflecting the protections guaranteed under the law. It is essential that these policies are updated to ensure they align with federal, state, and local legislation concerning discrimination based on gender, disability, race, and other protected characteristics. Ensuring comprehensive protections is not only an act of compliance but a moral obligation to provide a safe and equitable educational environment for all students.

As of 2023, the U.S. Department of Education has emphasized the necessity for universities to uphold students' rights, including accommodating diverse gender identities and disabilities. Discrepancies between CUNY's policies and legal standards can result in continued discrimination, depriving students of their right to an inclusive academic environment.

The university administration must take definitive steps to update its anti-discrimination policies promptly. These updates should incorporate comprehensive language that covers all forms of discrimination prohibited by law, explicitly include gender identity and disability, and provide clear procedures for addressing violations. Additionally, CUNY must establish partnerships with advocacy organizations to monitor and improve policy enforcement, ensuring accountability.

We need your support to push for these critical changes. Signing this petition will send a powerful message to CUNY leadership that the community demands an academic environment where all students are respected and protected. Let us stand together to make CUNY a leader in fostering inclusivity and equality. Please sign and share this petition today.