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UofL students rally for trans rights as leadership investigates reported mistreatment

While some complaints focused on housing and Greek life, the bulk of students who are transgender said they're called slurs and disrespected on and off campus.

LOUISVILLE, Ky. — University of Louisville students rallied on the steps of Grawmeyer Hall to show support for students who are transgender on Tuesday.

While some complaints focused on housing and Greek life, the bulk of students who are transgender said they're called slurs and disrespected on and off campus.

"We demand change and we want UofL to acknowledge the fact these are not just random incidents; they are a part of the larger problem which is pervasive and prevalent transphobia on our campus," student Parker Albro said.

Moth Sanchez said they chose to attend UofL "specifically because of its supposed friendliness to queer students."

"That status has been shattered in my eyes," they said.

According to a social media statement posted on Monday, UofL leadership said they're aware of two separate incidents where students who are transgender "were treated in a way that did not uphold our commitment as a community of care."

They said they have met with students, employees and the student organization involved.

"We will continue to meet with student leaders and impacted students while developing additional training and programs to support our trans community," leadership wrote.

While the statement didn't elaborate on the incidents, students have told WHAS11 grounds crew members have erased their chalk messages and they've had problems getting housing that matches their gender identity.

"We want the administration to understand that a statement is not enough. Especially such an underwhelming statement," Albero said.

Student Calvin Silver added they want to promise actual change.

"They like to promise a lot of empty things or like vague things, but that doesn't actually work when it's people's lives and livelihoods and existence," Silver said.

The campus has been named a safe higher-learning space for LGBTQ+ folks for several years.

"UofL is proud to be recognized as an LGBTQ-friendly university, and it is disheartening to hear some members of our community feel unsafe or unwelcome on our campuses," the leadership said.

Dr. Kim Schatzel was selected as the university president back in November 2022, and she was known for diversity and inclusion at her previous school, Townson University. Karman said she's been involved in handling the issues, but students said they are still dissatisfied.

Under the backdrop of legislation in Frankfort aiming to restrict trans access to gender-affirming care, and other legislation, these students said they need support now.

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