The Office for Civil Rights & Title IX remains committed to addressing complaints of discrimination in the LGBTQ+ community. As mentioned in the Belonging Newsletter on April 29, in light of recent actions by the Trump administration that have removed these cases from federal priorities, it is essential that you know Colorado College and the state of Colorado continue to hear and process complaints of discrimination and harassment based on sexual orientation and gender identity. CC works to create an open and supportive environment regardless of sex or gender, and strives to create an environment that allows all faculty, staff, and students to achieve their highest potentials, both here and in the world beyond.
Just last week, the State of Colorado passed HB25-1312, the Kelly Loving Act, enshrining protections for transgender individuals to ensure the right to gender-affirming healthcare and the ability to identify gender on death certificates, and to guard voting rights and emergency healthcare access. This bill adds to the great strides in the recent past in protecting the rights and interests of all Coloradoans. Additionally, Governor Polis signed SB25-014, Protecting the Freedom to Marry, on Apil 7, assuring the right of all to choose their partners, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.
CC has also created space for the LGBTQ+ community in the recently updated Civil Rights and Title IX policy which includes gender identity and sexual orientation among the protected classes. While the Federal Government has indicated that they will no longer investigate claims of discrimination and harassment based upon gender identity or sexual orientation, the State of Colorado and CC will continue to accept and investigate any such claims.
As you navigate the uncertainty of the many protections for LGBTQ+ individuals being debated on the national level, please take comfort in the consistency that we can provide at CC. For additional support, please reach out to the many resources on campus including:
