A professor at the State University of New York Geneseo is under investigation and may be fired after he administered a “quiz” to students that asked, “’Female or Shemale’: can you tell?”
Sociology professor David Sorbello’s quiz made headlines after an outraged student shared a photo of the slide online:
RT if you think the sociology department @SUNYGeneseo needs to rethink its approach to teaching about trans issues pic.twitter.com/FwX0emHop0
— Jasmine Cui (@notamathlete) October 20, 2017
The New York Daily News reports the slide was part of Sorbello’s “Introduction to Sociology” class and asked students if they could discern who was born biologically female or who was trans.
Two students have claimed Sorbello made a comment about not taking “the wrong one home.”
the professor was quoted as saying: "so this is a lesson to you all not to get too drunk or you might take the wrong one home"
— Jasmine Cui (@notamathlete) October 20, 2017
In response to Sorbello’s slide, SUNY Geneseo’s president, Denise A. Battles, announced the school would be investigating the incident, as it allegedly “pertains to our value of inclusivity.”
The statement also states the school will decide “if and what action is warranted” after investigating the reports about Sorbello’s slide and statements.
Even though the investigation has not been concluded, Battles wrote that the school “unequivocally” stands for diversity and inclusion that happens to include “all gender identities, gender expressions” and “other identities.”
As we review this situation, let me say unequivocally that SUNY Geneseo has a steadfast and uncompromising commitment to diversity and inclusivity. We work diligently to sustain an inviting and supportive environment for people of all gender identities, gender expressions, sexual orientations, races, religions and other identities.
For those who have been disturbed by Sorbello’s quiz, or merely hearing about it, Battles told students to contact the Interim Chief Diversity Officer, who uses all lowercase letters, the dean of students, and the LBGRQ services coordinator:
I use this opportunity to remind you that our Interim Chief Diversity Officer robbie routenberg (capitalization style intentional) is available as a resource to the campus community. I would also encourage any students who have support needs to contact Lenny Sancilio, dean of students, and Dillon Federici, coordinator of LGBTQ Programs and Services.
More than 150 students have signed a petition to make the school “respond in a way that, yes, condemns hate, but also offers solutions which are more proactive than they are reactive.”
Thank you for supporting MRCTV! As a tax-deductible, charitable organization, we rely on the support of our readers to keep us running! Keep MRCTV going with your gift here!