UC reaffirms protection of gay, lesbian rights
The following message in honor of Coming Out Week was delivered
by UC President Jack Peltason Oct. 13:
I appreciate this opportunity to affirm the University of
California’s commitment to seeing that our campuses continue to be
communities that welcome the strengths and contributions of the
diverse individuals they embrace, regardless of race, sex, sexual
orientation or any other personal characteristic.
At the most basic level, this commitment is reflected in the
university’s longstanding concern about protecting individuals
against discrimination. UC policies are very clear in this regard,
and we work hard to see that their spirit is encouraged and
respected throughout the university community.
Beyond these basic protections, I want the university’s lesbian,
gay and bisexual community to know that I consider it essential to
ensure that broad discussion and consultation occur on issues
important to you, including such matters as whether benefits should
be provided for domestic partners on the same basis as spouses of
employees.
Members of my senior staff and I have met with the UC Lesbian,
Gay and Bisexual Association to discuss this and other issues of
concern, and we plan future meetings as well. I have also asked my
staff to review the Academic Council’s important reports and
recommendations on benefits for non-spousal domestic partnerships,
and to follow closely legislative developments at both the state
and the national levels.
The dialogue we have begun will continue in the spirit of study,
consultation and debate that is one of our great strengths as a
university. I want to thank the members of the UC Lesbian, Gay and
Bisexual Association for their constructive role in this dialogue.
And I also want to take this occasion to thank the members of the
university’s lesbian, gay and bisexual community for the many
contributions you have made, and will continue to make, to the
University and its important missions.
Jack Peltason is the President of the University of
California.