UNC board rejects gender-neutral housing proposal

CHAPEL HILL, N.C. — The UNC Board of Governors has voted to ban all system campuses from allowing students to choose roommates of the opposite sex.

The News & Observer of Raleigh reports the vote took place Friday.

Proponents of the UNC policy, which passed the board of trustees last year, argue it will help prevent harassment of gay, lesbian and transgender students. Advocates say many gay and transgender students feel more comfortable with members of the opposite sex and the policy would have allowed a gay man to live with a woman best friend.

Opponents deemed the living arrangements inappropriate.

When students return to campus on Aug. 17, officials will have to reassign those who had been placed in 32 gender-neutral spaces made available in two dorms and the Ram Village Apartments.

WSOC