Improve connections between all of the University's digital systems to eliminate issues, namely that of deadnaming, and improve efficiency of communication
Lead Officer: Olivia Warner, SU Sport Officer
What is the issue about?
The university's current digital systems are outdated and communication between systems do not always integrate. As a result, there have been many complaints from trans people at the university about the use of deadnames, as different mailing lists do not correspond with each other. This has also led to many trans people being worried about, or not even attending, graduation as they are concerned their deadname will be announced out loud. If proper connections between systems are formed, it will make the university a safer, more inclusive space and improve trans student satisfaction.
What are we asking the University to do?
We are asking the University to review and update their digital systems such that data is properly communicated between each one. For people changing their name, a "tell us once" service should be implemented. For graduations, students who have had a name change during their studies should be consulted to ensure the most accurate name is read out.
What will success look like?
1. All mailing lists will align to students and staff's
most current name and pronouns.
2. University systems 'talk' to each other effectively minimising errors across systems.
3. At graduations, students who have had a name change during their studies should be consulted to ensure the most accurate name is read out.
4. A reduction in complaints and incidents of misnaming and deadnaming.
Updates
Updates will be added here.
Useful Terminology
- Deadnaming - the act of referring to a transgender or non-binary person by a name they used prior to transitioning, such as their birth name. This is seen as invalidating the person’s identity.