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How To Support Trans Students, Faculty and Staff

Recognize the right to use an RC Name. If a person has identified a name for themselves that is different than their legal name, it is important for everyone to allow them the autonomy, as adults, to determine how they should be represented. Not only is using the RC Name supportive of the student, but according to Lambda Legal, it is also protecting private student records under FERPA.  

Names hold power. Together, we can support students and employees in owning that power as part of their individual identity development. Respecting privacy and autonomy can only support individuals in growing to be their fullest selves. A person's chosen name and gender identity pronouns should be used whenever possible.  

“Coming out” is often a lifelong process. As individuals determine when and whether to share this part of their identities is based on a combination of personal, safety, professional, and other factors. For trans and nonbinary people, use their RC Name wherever possible, and follow their lead. It is possible that trans and nonbinary students may only be out in one of their communities at first – maybe at school, but not at home; or maybe just one community at school (e.g. their athletic team or close friend group) but not to the whole school. Ask your students and employees how they want you to navigate their naming and pronouns. 

Avoid dead naming where you can, and talk about those circumstances where you can’t. For many students who pursue a name change, privacy is key. Hearing a "birth" or legal name is not just distressful, but it can lead to bullying from peers. 

  • Know campus policies for updating and changing name records  
  • If you are writing letters for your students and they have come out to you, ask them whether/how they would like you to address anything about their identity, and then do that.  
  • Misnaming or mis gendering on purpose is hurtful and disrespectful and will not be tolerated. 
  • Proactively reach out to trans and nonbinary students when you know there will be a conflict in naming conventions. Explain when and where they may still see their prior name so that they are not caught off guard. 

Pull from transgender resources. When compiling course texts and creating your syllabus, be sure to include transgender voices.  

Educate yourself.  It can be exhausting for transgender students and employees to constantly educate those around them. Be proactive in learning about the transgender experience. 

Protect your students' safety. If you notice transphobia or hear transphobic comments in or outside the classroom, stop the conduct. Educate others. Build a culture of understanding and acceptance. 

Transgender students are more than their gender identity.  Engage with students beyond this one aspect of their lives and learn about their other interests and experiences. Do not single them out for class participation just because of their gender identity. 

Be patient with yourself. You may forget the RC Name or use an incorrect pronoun. Own up to the mistake by simply correcting yourself, apologize, and move on. Commit to getting it correct the next time.  

Sources: Green et al., New York Times, 10/21/18; Nicolazzo, Inside Higher Ed, 10/12/18; Jashik, Inside Higher Ed, 10/22/18