The University Student Government (USG) began the initiative to include pronouns and gender identity in the enrollment forms of incoming applicants to De La Salle University-Dasmariñas with an online survey that finished last September 15.
USG Department of SOGIE Affairs Secretary Joshua Cataag said in an interview that this is a small step in making the university inclusive and diverse.
“Doon kami magsisimula, doon namin ii-introduce [kung] ano ba ang SOGIE. We want everyone to know na okay, mayroon palang mga ganitong bagay. Meron kaming mga tinatawag na pronouns and we have our own preference sa kung paano kami tawagin,” Cataag said.
Maria Gracia Olorga, Faculty Campus Minister of the Campus Ministry Office (CMO), showed her support for the USG’s initiative.
“The initiative to include gender identity and pronouns in the enrollment forms aligns with the Lasallian values of respect for human dignity and inclusivity,” Olorga said. “By recognizing and validating the diverse identities of students, the CMO […] believes this initiative fosters a more welcoming and supportive environment, which is essential for the holistic development of every student.”
SOGIE Affairs Dept. Assistance Secretary Elaiza Oliveros said in the same interview that DLSU-D being a Catholic institution does not mean that progress in the campus should be limited, which Olorga agreed with.
A comparison was made to the main La Salle campus, DLSU Manila, and how even though it’s a Catholic institution too—it’s much more progressive in SOGIE concerns compared to DLSU-D.
The survey of the USG aimed to measure the student body’s insights in the inclusion of personal pronouns—he/him, she/her, and they/them—and gender identity in the enrollment forms that may be reflected in their Schoolbook and how the faculty will address each student.
This initiative will be lobbied by the USG through their adviser then to the Office of Student Services until it lands to the decision of the Academic Council and the University President.
Oliveros mentioned that this is a year-long commitment since the final goal of the department and the USG is a total change in the system. She said, “Hindi lang siya nagsa-stand as pagbabago sa pronouns. Ang pinaka-end goal, […] systematic and institutional changes.”
In the instance that the initiative might be rejected by the higher-ups, the USG is planning on making it a continuous effort that will transition to the next administration.
Cataag mentioned that there are more plans on SOGIE-related actions for the university in the future but did not reveal any of the plans in detail.
