media mention

Temple to safeguard students’ gender identity expressions despite unclear ramifications

“It’s an attempt to control us all,” said Shiwali Patel, senior director of school safety and inclusivity at the National Women’s Law Center and a nationally recognized Title IX expert. “It’s an attempt to control how we present ourselves, an attempt to control women and an attempt to erase protections for trans, nonbinary and intersex people. The complexity of gender and sex is a threat to their agenda. Being clear about that intent is important.”

Patel believes it’s important that establishments like universities resist these measures.

“Institutions should really hold the line firmly against these attacks on student rights, and first and foremost create an environment where students feel safe and welcomed and affirmed,” Patel said. “This time calls for boldness and clarity around the law and around what these actions are really attempting to do.”