Don’t Miss the Rescheduled LGBTQ Health Care Panel: Insights on Impact of Trump’s Policies | Harvard Crimson News

Harvard University Health Services has rescheduled a virtual panel focusing on LGBTQ health care services for March 11. This update comes after the original event was canceled just hours before it was set to take place on February 7, amid concerns over President Trump’s executive orders affecting transgender individuals.

The panel will feature a presentation on resources available to Harvard community members, followed by a Q&A session moderated by Meagan von Rohr, Director of the Office of BGLTQ Student Life.

Panelists will include the LGBTQ Care Team, which consists of various healthcare professionals like nurse practitioners, doctors, and licensed mental health counselors. Mallory Finne, a Patient Advocate at Harvard University Health Services, will also participate. Her role involves assisting patients with financial aid and addressing concerns they might have.

The decision to reschedule this panel indicates that Harvard is committed to sustaining its support for LGBTQ issues, despite the broader national climate. While some institutions have removed references to diversity and gender identity from their platforms due to political pressure, Harvard recently held its annual forum on equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging. University leaders have emphasized that diversity is crucial for academic excellence.

Although Trump’s Department of Education has weakened some federal protections for transgender individuals, Harvard continues to uphold a robust sexual misconduct policy that protects gender identity. However, the impact of these political changes is evident. For instance, the athletics department took down its Transgender Inclusion Policy following a mandate that restricts trans women from competing in women’s sports.

Additionally, Harvard is currently facing a lawsuit related to its decision to let a transgender swimmer participate in the 2022 Ivy League Swimming and Diving Championships. This lawsuit was filed shortly before new restrictions on trans athletes were introduced.

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