Women’s liberal arts institution Wellesley College’s female students voted March 14 to allow admission to transgender men and non-binary people assigned male at birth, The Washington Post reported.
The nonbinding vote came after a recent debate between students and Wellesley’s administration — which resisted such a change. As of 2015, Wellesley allows transgender women to apply for admission.
“Wellesley College.” acknowledges the outcome of a non-binding student ballot initiative,” the school said in a statement. “While there is no plan to rethink its mission as a women’s college or its admissions policy, the College will continue to engage all students, including transgender men and non-binary students, in the important work of building an inclusive academic community where everyone feels they belong. .”
Several other women’s liberal arts colleges allow trans women admission, but also allow trans men who transfer to the university to graduate.
“From my experience, there is a disconnect between the student body and the administration in what the students want, especially the board of trustees. [of trustees]because a lot of them are older and it’s not a very diverse board,” said Alexandra Brooks, the school’s government president.
According to a 2022 Gallup poll, approximately 2.1% of Gen Z adults identify as transgender.
