Sexuality and Gender Inclusivity

Statement of LGBTQ Welcome & Inclusivity*

California Lutheran University is an intentionally diverse community committed to inclusivity and respect for the dignity and identities of each individual. As such, we welcome students, faculty, and staff who are or come to know themselves as gay, lesbian, bisexual, intersex, transgender, non-binary, and/or queer.

As a university of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), this inclusivity is consistent with the church's policy, affirmed in 1991, "that gay and lesbian people, as individuals created by God, are welcome to participate fully in the life of the congregations of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America."

In 1993, that declaration was extended to express "strong opposition to all forms of verbal or physical harassment or assault of persons because of their sexual orientation," and support for the civil rights of persons of all sexual orientations.

In 2009, the ELCA adopted the statement, “Human Sexuality: Gift and Trust”, which grounds the relationship God establishes with creation as a model for relationships between human beings. The statement promotes relationships that foster trust, commitment, and protection for the well-being and flourishing of all people, and expects institutions and social structures to shelter, sustain, and protect personal, family and social relationships.

At the heart of the Christian faith, as understood by the ELCA, is trust in God's loving care for all. The university cherishes a living tradition that welcomes and calls together people of diverse values, worldviews, and identities to create a rich educational community.

Cal Lutheran’s community is strengthened by our LGBTQ+ members. Discrimination and harassment on the basis of sexuality and/or gender identity are inconsistent with the mission and values of the university and the community we strive to foster. The university is committed to being a place of welcome for all people including those who identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual, intersex, transgender, non-binary, and/or queer because they are essential participants in the common life and mission of the university. This commitment is consistent with and rooted in our identity as an institution of Lutheran higher education.

*For a basic glossary of terms, please see this resource from the Human Rights Campaign.

For a list of LGBTQIA+ Resources, click here.

To view the university’s other policies related to inclusion, please view the links below:

805-493-3330
windhamh@CalLutheran.edu