Boise State University’s student government waded into the Scott Yenor debate Wednesday, passing a resolution affirming its support of women and condemning “bigoted, chauvinistic, degrading, and unfair views on women.”
The Associated Students of Boise State University declaration came the same day that university administrators issued their own statement of support for women.
The ASBSU does not directly mention Yenor — a Boise State political science professor who has come under fire for a polarizing Oct. 31 speech on feminism, and on higher education’s role in eroding male-female relationships. But unlike the administrators, the ASBSU clearly addresses Yenor’s comments.
“Members of the Boise State community, including faculty, staff, and students, who perpetuate regressive notions that women do not belong at our University can be detrimental to the educational pursuits of women at Boise State,” the student declaration reads, in part.
The ASBSU general assembly approved the declaration on a 10-1 vote, with two members dissenting, and the ASBSU Senate passed it on an 8-0 vote.
Here is the declaration, in full:
I. Purpose
To declare that the Associated Students at Boise State University stand in support of women in all areas of higher education and professional industry, with an appreciation for the accomplishments women have made in the pursuit of bettering academics, research, service, and leadership at BSU and beyond. ASBSU also declares a firm stance against any person who holds bigoted, chauvinistic, degrading, and unfair views on women in positions of knowledge and power.
II. Rationale
WHEREAS, Women at Boise State University should feel welcomed and supported in pursuing their educational and professional goals.
WHEREAS, ASBSU acknowledges, and deems vital, the bolstering effect of diversity of identity, thought, and gender on innovation and research advancement.
WHEREAS, in light of recent events, ASBSU affirms the rights afforded by academic freedom, we as ASBSU reject the notion that academic freedom permits discriminatory, oppressive, and outright harmful conduct to students, faculty, and staff of Boise State University.
WHEREAS, The University Statement of Shared Values states that, “Boise State strives to provide a culture of civility and success where all feel safe and free from discrimination, harassment, threats or intimidation.”
WHEREAS, Women are linked to higher productivity in management teams and valuation of Fortune 1000 firms.(Carter, Simkins, & Simpson, 2003).
WHEREAS, Members of the Boise State community, including faculty, staff, and students, who perpetuate regressive notions that women do not belong at our University can be detrimental to the educational pursuits of women at Boise State.
THEREFORE, be it resolved that ASBSU upholds the fact that women belong in all areas of academia, public life, and professional trades as much as any other person. ASBSU also stands in opposition to people who seek to impose discriminatory views on women, especially on Boise State’s campus.
