Equity, diversity and inclusion initiatives at Canadian universities
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Mount Royal University permits students to use first names of their choice
Joining the University of Alberta and McGill University, Mount Royal University began allowing students to use the first names of their choice in 2017.
Students can use their preferred first name for many systems and services, including class lists, email accounts and student ID cards. They will not be able to choose an offensive name, or one that belongs to someone else. Graduation parchments will still use their legal names.
The university hopes the policy will lead to a more inclusive environment not only for transgender students, but also for international students who want to Anglicize their names. The students’ union supported the move because it puts the decision in the hands of students.
