Brussels Free University, ULB, has invited a student to a discussion with university authorities following a social media post in which she criticised a perceived lack of awareness of transgender rights at ULB.
In the post the student, identified as Victoria, flagged a transphobic attack that occurred last week on campus, describing it as the final straw in a series of transphobic incidents experienced throughout her studies at ULB. She also highlighted frequent instances of misgendering, particularly by faculty and administration members.
“At this stage, it shows a severe lack of internal awareness,” Victoria commented.
Indicating its awareness of the claims, the ULB invited Victoria to discuss the issues with institutional authorities. The university mentioned its Equality Law Clinic, which actively advocates for trans rights and added that transphobia awareness training is included in its new Gender and Diversity plan.
The university said it was also investigating additional locations for gender-neutral bathrooms, in addition to those at the ULB Sport facility and Erasme campus library. An inclusive bathroom policy note is also under preparation, the ULB added.
Meanwhile, Victoria criticised a “disconnect” between management commitments and the reality faced by students.
She said there was an urgent need to educate students, lecturers, security personnel, and administrative staff on the dangers of transphobia.
