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Advocates for gender-neutral housing called on the Board of Trustees to support implementing the policy on Wednesday. The University community owes students a safe campus, and the push for the additional housing option deserves its full support.

Every student has a right to safety on campus, but students who identify outside of traditional gender norms are much more likely to experience verbal harassment and fear for physical safety because of how they identify.

Almost 12 percent of reports of verbal harassment in 2009 occurred in residence halls, according to the campus climate report. This rate could be reduced if students of different gender identities, gender expressions and sexual orientations had an alternative option to living on a same-sex hall.

A gender-neutral housing option would give students the opportunity to room together on campus regardless of gender. This policy, which could reduce incidents of harassment and increase safety for those it serves and is sensible, free and just.

The campaign for gender-neutral housing has received widespread support. About 3,000 students have signed the petition and the UNC-system Association of Student Governments passed a resolution supporting it.

This is not just an issue for those who identify outside of traditional gender norms. It matters for everyone who wants a safe, accepting campus.

Gender-neutral housing should be passed at UNC. Every student, member of the faculty or staff and administrator has a part in creating an affirming, safe environment. We owe this to the UNC community. All of it.

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