The Hamilton Southeastern School Board will have new proposed language to begin the discussion of a nondiscrimination policy, but the group HSEqual says it will likely not support the new wording.
The language released Monday uses the term “gender nonconformity” under its listing of those protected by this policy proposal. Jaime Cairn, one of HSEqual’s founders, posted a message on Facebook saying the organization will not support this language.
“While the policy is an update from a 19 year old policy and progress in some respects, the policy does not unequivocally provide that the board will not discriminate against the listed classes; the phrase “gender nonconforming” does not include transgender people; and the use of the word “unlawful” throughout the latter half of the policy contradicts the list of protected classes,” wrote Cairns.
“This policy is not the inclusive language that HSEqual has been advocating for since day one,” added Cairns. “Hamilton Southeastern schools should seek to create an environment where all students are welcome, valued, respected, and protected.”
Below is the language board members will have before them as a proposal to begin the discussion:
Hamilton Southeastern School Corporation will not discriminate or tolerate any form of discrimination in its educational or employment activities for any reason or on any basis prohibited by applicable federal and state laws, including race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender nonconformity, national origin, age or disability. This includes but is not limited to a characteristic, trait, belief, practice, association or other attribute. Hamilton Southeastern Schools will foster a culture and environment that does not marginalize, treat unfairly or disrespect any member of our school community and will recognize the uniqueness and individuality of all students, educators, staff and administrators so they have an opportunity to succeed.
This commitment applies to all School Corporation operations, programs, and activities. All students, administrators, teachers, staff, and all other school personnel share responsibility for avoiding, discouraging, and reporting any form of unlawful harassment or discrimination. This policy applies to unlawful conduct occurring on school grounds immediately before, during, or immediately after school hours; in any school program or activity taking place in school facilities, on school transportation, or at other off‐campus locations, such as at school‐sponsored field trips or a training program; or using property or equipment provided by the school, including school‐owned computers and the school’s computer network.
The immediate remedy for any act of discrimination shall be to end it, treat the individuals involved equitably, and, as much as practically possible, eradicate any effects of discrimination. The school corporation may impose discipline as appropriate.
The Board passed, on first reading, the following policy wording April 24th – “The school corporation will not discriminate in its educational and employment activities on any basis prohibited by applicable federal or state laws.”
The board meeting is scheduled to begin at 7 p.m., Wednesday, May 8, at the school administration building on Cumberland Road. A large crowd is expected. Overflow rooms with a video feed are expected to be available for those not able to fit into the board meeting room.