Iowa Legislation and Grinnell Values

Dear Grinnellians,

Earlier today, Governor Kim Reynolds signed House File 2416, which prohibits female transgender athletic participation. This law extends to all public and private colleges and universities.

This legislation contradicts our Grinnellian values. Our nondiscrimination policy explicitly states that we will not discriminate based on sex, gender, gender identity or gender expression in access to and participation in our educational programs, services, and activities. This policy complies with Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972.

Being affirmed and supported in our identities and living without fear of discrimination is a fundamental human right that is crucial to living a healthy, safe, and fulfilling life. Grinnell College exists for the thriving of each and every one of its community members. It believes in the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness for all.

We will continue to monitor likely legal challenges to this legislation, as well as actions that might be taken by the NCAA and our athletics conferences. Below I share some resources you might wish to use as we process this legislation. Most importantly, this community will continue to support LGBTQIA+ community members and their right to live out their identity to the fullest.

With deep gratitude,

Anne

Anne F. Harris
President

Support Resources

The College’s Stonewall Resource Center (SRC) is a confidential, safe space serving Grinnell’s LGBTQIA+ communities and allies. Staffed by a student management team, the center offers support for individuals, educational programming, and LGBTQIA+ activities on campus.

The National Center for Transgender Equality website has an excellent page about “Supporting the Transgender People in Your Life: A Guide to Being a Good Ally,” which you might want to check out and share.

Resources for students:

• Dedicated staff colleagues at the Stonewall Resource Center <srcenter@grinnell.edu>, CRSSJ <crssj@grinnell.edu>, and Intercultural Affairs <ica@grinnell.edu> are available.
• If you Need to Talk (emergency counseling support) you can call 641-269-4404 and reach a counselor all hours of the day and night.
• You can access virtual counseling through HealthiestYou (College insurance) or Virtual Care (non-College insurance).
• Access our SHAW counselors by calling 641-269-3230.
• Call 641-269-4600 to reach Campus Safety for on-call staff support.

Resources for faculty and staff:

• You may access counseling support through Employee and Family Resources. 
• Contact University of Iowa counseling support at 319-535-0437 (leave a voicemail) 
• University of Iowa Telepsychology Training Clinic (TPTC) <uitptc.com>