NewsNational News

Actions

UNC approves gender-neutral housing for students

Posted at 4:11 PM, Nov 15, 2012
and last updated 2012-11-15 16:11:34-05

CHAPEL HILL (WTVR/by )— The Board of Trustees at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill on Thursday unanimously approved a measure that would allow students living in on campus housing to choose a roommate of any gender.

According to WRAL, supporters of the measure say the move would help  gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender students who are being harassed and bullied in traditional on-campus housing.

No one will be forced to choose this option, it is opt-in only. 

According to the report, students would have to apply to be part of the program, and university administrators say it will affect only a small percentage of dorm rooms and campus apartments.

Chancellor Holden Thorp says work to implement the plan for the fall 2013 semester will begin immediately.

Nearly 100 colleges across the country offer gender non-specific housing, including Duke University and the University of Maryland.

Source: WRAL