Consequences and Considerations of "Free Speech" in Higher Education: Validating Trans and Non-binary Identities

• In Event: Discrimination, Microaggressions, and Biases against Queer and Trans People

Abstract

In several recent legal cases, college and university professors have argued that refusing to honor transgender students' chosen names and/or pronouns is protected by the "right to free speech" and "academic freedom." This raises several interesting questions. First, does an educator have an obligation to respect an individual’s choice of personal pronouns or name? Second, even if there is no such obligation, why is it in the best interest for the educator to honor the chosen personal pronouns and name of a student? Third, how can educators be more aware of trans issues in the classroom and proactively address ways to respect trans identities by allowing them to initiate the conversations and avoid outing any students? Our article concludes with a discussion of best practices to facilitate an inclusive learning environment that promotes learning and mutual respect.

Authors

• Bryan Charles Moore, University of Southern Indiana

• Max Osborn, Villanova University

• Christina DeJong, Michigan State University