MONROE — State Representative James DeSana withdrew his support from Monroe County Community College in a press release on Thursday, Oct. 3, in protest against the college’s “bathroom policy,” which allows the students to use on-campus bathrooms based on gender identity rather than sex. His disagreement caused him to decline an invitation to participate in a groundbreaking ceremony by the college.
“MCCC’s policy ignores biological reality and the reasons why we keep those things separate,” he said. “This is about protecting women and making sure they feel safe.”
MCCC president Dr. Kojo Quartey released a response statement, calling DeSana’s withdrawal of support “regrettable” and defending the college’s decision.
“Our policy on illegal discrimination and harassment prohibits discrimination based on gender identity/expression,” he said. “MCCC’s policy on this issue is consistent with state and federal law – as well as major institutions of higher learning such as the University of Michigan and Michigan State University.”