We wanted to take a moment to update everyone about CSI/CUNY’s Preferred Name and Gender Policies. Anyone at CUNY has the right to update their gender and have a preferred name used during their time with us. For a myriad of reasons, students and our colleagues may be unable to go through a legal name change. As such, using and affirming the preferred names and pronouns of our students and colleagues goes a long way in making our transgender, nonbinary, and gender-diverse community feel welcome, safe, and recognized. Using their preferred name will help them thrive and enhances retention. Please consider asking students at the start of classes and our colleagues for their preferred names and pronouns.

We ask that all faculty, staff, offices, and departments use students’ preferred names and pronouns when emailing and interacting. To protect student privacy and to prevent outing, we ask that all mailing to students’ homes be done with their legal name. In the past, issues have been caused by mailing students with their preferred name. Please see full information about our guidelines and how students, faculty, and staff can make updates online.

“Transgender and nonbinary youth who report having their pronouns respected by all or most of the people in their lives attempted suicide at half the rate of those who did not have their pronouns respected.” https://www.thetrevorproject.org/survey-2020/?section=Supporting-Transgender-Nonbinary-Youth

We understand that these issues can be complicated and confusing. Please do not hesitate to contact me with questions or concerns at Jeremiah.Jurkiewicz@csi.cuny.edu, as I will be more than happy to engage in a conversation and/or provide a training to your department or office. We appreciate your help in making CSI a place where all students can thrive and achieve their goals. Please help us in sharing this information with students. I am happy to support LGBTQ+ students and those who are questioning their sexuality or gender identity. Please refer any students who need support or are looking for a loving community.

By Jeremiah Jurkiewicz (He/Him/His)