On a supportive, inclusive environment

Dear Harvard Chan School community,

Earlier this week it was reported that the federal government may attempt to redefine the legal meaning of gender in a way that conflicts with the scientific and medical communities’ current knowledge. The potential consequences of such an action could reduce the recognition and protections for transgender and non-binary individuals.

Many of you may be hurt, upset, or rightfully alarmed by this news, and I want to reiterate that the Harvard Chan School is dedicated to providing a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment for the transgender and non-binary members of our community and that we do not condone discrimination against anyone. As a school of public health, fairness, equity, and social justice are fundamental, intrinsic values that guide us in our mission, our research, and our teaching.

If you have any questions or concerns, I would like to remind you of the helpful resources available at the School and our Longwood community:

Office of Diversity and Inclusion

Title IX coordinators have specialized experience in responding to disclosures of sexual and gender-based harassment in the Harvard community.

The Ombuds Office provides a highly confidential forum to students, faculty, and staff whose concerns are affecting their work or studies.

For those in need of counseling or mental health support, experienced counselors are available through the Office of Sexual Assault Prevention and Response (617-496-5636). Faculty and staff may also contact Harvard’s Employee Assistance Program at 877-327-4278 (1-877-EAP-HARV). Students can contact Colleen Cronin in Student Services (617-432-1542) or Harvard University Counseling and Mental Health Services at 617-495-2042 (617-495-5711 after hours).

The Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity and Expression (SOGIE) working group

Fenway Health, an LGBTQ-focused health center

Additional Harvard resources and community resources

We seek nothing less than excellence in pursuing our public health mission, and that can only be achieved in an environment based on fairness and equal treatment for all.

Sincerely,

Michelle A. Williams, ScD
Dean of the Faculty, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health

Angelopoulos Professor in Public Health and International Development,
Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health and Harvard Kennedy School