Johns Hopkins University, a renowned educational institution in Baltimore, has found itself in the midst of controversy following an update to its LGBTQ+ glossary definition of “lesbian.” In an effort to be more inclusive of nonbinary individuals who may identify as lesbians, the university redefined the term as “a non-man attracted to a non-man”. However, this move has ignited criticism, with social media users accusing Johns Hopkins of erasing women.
The updated glossary is part of Johns Hopkins University’s commitment to fostering an inclusive campus culture that welcomes diverse gender identities, sexual orientations, and viewpoints. The glossary serves as an introduction to the range of identities and terms used within LGBTQ+ communities, providing a resource for understanding and discussion. Nonetheless, the alteration to the definition of “lesbian” has raised concerns and sparked a broader conversation about gender and sexual identity.
Notably, TERF author J.K. Rowling joined the discourse on Twitter, publicly chastising the educational institution for its updated definition. Rowling’s comment implied that the revised definition perpetuates an erasure of women, positioning them as defined solely in relation to men. Her involvement added further fuel to the already heated online discussions surrounding the issue.
This controversy arises at a time when several state legislatures in the United States have passed laws targeting transgender communities, particularly affecting transgender children’s access to gender-affirming medical care. Additionally, right-wing critics have vehemently denounced brands and companies that show support for LGBTQ+ communities. Against this backdrop, Johns Hopkins University reiterates its commitment to creating an inclusive and supportive environment for LGBTQ+ individuals, emphasizing the intention of the glossary to foster understanding rather than impose definitive definitions.
In response to the backlash, Jill Rosen, Johns Hopkins’s director of media relations, issued a statement to The Advocate, expressing the university’s dedication to investigating the origin and context of the glossary definitions. The university has temporarily removed the controversial glossary page from its website while gathering more information. GLAAD, the Human Rights Campaign (HRC), and the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) offer differing definitions in their respective glossaries, further highlighting the complexity and ongoing conversations surrounding LGBTQ+ terminology.
As the discussions unfold, the controversy surrounding Johns Hopkins University’s updated definition of “lesbian” underscores the broader societal debates surrounding gender, sexual identity, and inclusivity.