At their May 24, 2022 meeting, the WSVMA Board of Directors voted to sign on in support of the Gender Identity Bill of Rights (GIBOR). GIBOR, written by Pride Veterinary Medical Community (VMC) members Drs. Erika Lin-Hendel, Ewan Wolff, and Jenna Ward are meant to address inequality and inequity within the veterinary profession. Released in June 2021, GIBOR outlines the basic rights needed for transgender, non-binary, and gender non-conforming people to exist in the veterinary profession. GIBOR highlights the correct name and pronoun use, bathroom access, and protection from discrimination and harassment. As states introduce anti-LGBTQ+ and anti-Trans legislation, the urgency around amplifying this important document increases.
In its work to make meaningful change, Pride VMC urges all members of the veterinary profession to acknowledge the existence, humanity, and worth of transgender, non-binary, and gender non-conforming people within veterinary medicine. The organization also asks individuals to express their support by completing their signatory form.
Nearly 600 individuals and 100 organizations have signed on in support, including colleges of veterinary medicine, industry, and veterinary medical associations.
Pride VMC also plans to publish the Gender Diversity Guide, a follow-up implementation guide, later in 2022. All those that sign and commit to the Bill of Rights will be offered access to the manual.
The WSVMA Board of Directors believes it’s important that organizations that support diversity, equity, and inclusion stand up against harassment and discrimination.
For more information, visit these resources:
- Gender Identity Bill of Rights: Full Text
- GIBOR overview video
- Article: Next steps for transgender, nonbinary, and gender-nonconforming belonging in veterinary medicine
Posted May 27, 2022