This Education Statement is an Affirmation of Solidarity and Support
We are dedicated to fostering an academic community that recognizes the complexities of gender, sexuality, and other social identities. Our commitment extends beyond acknowledgement to active engagement and support for marginalized communities in the learning process.
Gender & Sexuality Studies at New Mexico State University affirms and celebrates the diversity of our student body, staff, faculty, and the broader Borderlands region. This community includes transgender, nonbinary, Two Spirit, and other gender expansive individuals whose identities and expressions enrich our collective learning environment.
We stand committed to providing a supportive and inclusive environment where every individual is treated with respect, acceptance, and compassion. This commitment extends to learners of all genders—cisgender, transgender, non-binary, gender fluid, agender, intersex, and other forms of identity and expression. Discrimination has no place here: we reject bias based on race, sex, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, gender identity, or gender expression.
Transgender rights are human rights. Trans women are women. Trans men are men. Nonbinary identities are valid and essential. The use of a person's pronouns and inclusive language is not optional; it is a fundamental part of recognizing and respecting their identity.
In these challenging times, as we witness the spread of laws and intolerance that threaten the rights and safety of gender expansive individuals, we want to underscore our unwavering support. We stand with all those who are impacted by these harmful measures and actively work towards promoting understanding, acceptance, and legal protection for all.
We recognize the intersectionality of human rights, particularly when it comes to reproductive rights. The recent overturning of Roe vs. Wade has ramifications far beyond cisgender women—it affects transgender men, nonbinary individuals, and anyone capable of becoming pregnant. We firmly believe in the right to autonomy over one's body, the importance of accessible reproductive healthcare, and the necessity for comprehensive sex education.
Furthermore, we acknowledge the systemic disparities that put African American women at higher risk during pregnancy and childbirth in the United States. This glaring inequity is unacceptable and requires our collective attention, action, and advocacy.
We oppose all forms of gender-based violence and pledge to work towards creating a safe, supportive, and welcoming university environment for everyone. We understand that achieving this requires ongoing effort, and we are dedicated to this cause.
Pronoun Information
If you do know or are unsure of a person’s pronoun, ask them. Let's normalize asking and apologizing when mistakes are made. Be committed to acknowledging the person as who they are and learning about their experiences and perspectives. Moreover, the use of gender-inclusive/ non-sexist language is important because it includes everyone.
She/her/hers and he/him/his are commonly used gendered pronouns. They/them/their are gender neutral pronouns commonly used along with a few others.
Please refer to the table below for common personal pronouns and how they might be used.
| Pronouns | Usage Example |
|---|---|
| She/Her/Hers | She finished the exam. |
| He/Him/His | He finished the paper. |
| They/Them/Their | They are an active member of the class. |
| Ze/Zir/Zirs | Ze is a leader in meeting deadlines. |
| Name Only | Some individuals prefer to be called by their name. |
Please note that pronoun usage is personal, and it is essential to respect individuals' preferences and choices regarding their pronouns.
Preferred First Name
NMSU provides students, staff, and faculty the opportunity to indicate their preferred first name that will be used in place of an individual’s legal first name on unofficial documents, including email display name, Canvas display name, student IDs, phonebook entry, and name on class rosters. To update your preferred first name, log in at http://my.nmsu.edu and click on the PERSONAL INFORMATION link. After the submenu opens, click on “more.” Once the new window opens, click on “Update Preferred First Name.”
All Gender Restrooms
G&SS, through the support of the Office of the Dean of Arts and Sciences, lead the effort to install two All Gender Restrooms in Breland Hall (Room 113, in east wing and room 211, in east wing).
Student Programs
NMSU LGBT+ Programs is committed to meeting the needs of LGBTQ+ people and to welcome and encourage the expression and success of all NMSU students. They provide advocacy, resources, education, and programming for students, faculty, and staff. LGBT+ Programs is a leader on campus for making positive changes, like brining Preferred First Name, All Gender Restrooms, and more to NMSU. They are also available by email: lgbt@nmsu.edu
