SUNY Student Assembly Praises Pentagon Decision to Allow Transgender Troops

 

The Student Assembly of the State University of New York (SUNY SA) issued the following statements regarding the Pentagon's decision. 

SUNY Student Assembly Vice President Bridget Doyle:

“I was absolutely overwhelmed to hear about this historic victory. To see an institution that is commonly perceived as unyielding and rigid take a major step towards gender inclusivity and equity is a ringing endorsement of social progress and the rejection of gender binary norms. To my fellow students who are members of the transgender or gender non-conforming community: today I celebrate with you. This is an example for every single institution in this country: Now is the time to make a change. Let us rid ourselves of the days of exclusive gender policies. It is time for us to decide to judge someone based only upon their merit.

“In the wake of this monumental decision, I reflect on Laverne Cox’s teachings, ‘I want to encourage each and every one of us to interrogate how we might be an oppressor and how we might be able to become liberators for ourselves and each other.

“The LGBT+/MOGII community has been subject to oppression, marginalization and hatred for centuries. It is a unique honor and privilege to live and advocate in a time that is by far the most critical juncture in our history. SUNY students across the state have reason to celebrate today. I'm proud to see our military reflecting American values in its policies.”

SUNY Student Assembly President and SUNY Trustee Marc Cohen:

“SUNY students have been advocating for this and similar issues long before they reached mainstream attention. We are thrilled to see one of our nation's oldest institutions modernize its social policies.”

 SUNY Student Assembly Chair of Military Affairs Lori Mould:

“The US military has taken a progressive leap which gives the transgender community the right to openly serve in the US Armed Forces. These women and men deserve not only the right to serve freely and without fear but to serve with dignity, honor, and respect. We are witnessing history being made, right here and now.”

The Student Assembly of the State University of New York (SUNY SA) is an organization comprised of student leaders elected by their peers from across SUNY’s 64 campuses. Empowering students throughout the state, the SUNY SA is committed to student life and ensuring the representation of its members on the state and national level as well as throughout the SUNY system.