A controversy has arisen at Johns Hopkins University over its LGBTQ lexicon, which referred to a woman as a “non-man.” The lexicon’s definition of a lesbian as “a non-man attracted to non-men” garnered criticism for its departure from the traditional understanding of a lesbian as a woman attracted to other women, and its inclusion of non-binary individuals under the label. Following complaints, the university removed the full lexicon and issued an explanation.
Conservative journalists and opponents of gender ideology, including Ben Shapiro and J.K. Rowling, expressed their disapproval of the university’s statement, highlighting what they perceived as its absurdity. Rowling tweeted that a non-man or woman is a being that cannot be defined in terms of men, describing it as an absence or a vacuum where manhood does not exist.
The university acknowledged the complaints and removed the glossary while investigating its origins and cultural background. They emphasized that the glossary was meant to serve as an introduction to LGBTQ identities and not as definitive answers on how all people understand or use the terms. Johns Hopkins expressed its commitment to creating an inclusive environment for LGBTQ individuals and fostering a campus culture that welcomes diverse gender identities, sexual orientations, experiences, and perspectives.
The term in question received apparent approval from Paula Neira, the Program Director for LGBTQ+ Equity and Education at Johns Hopkins. Neira, a transgender man, has a background as a former Navy officer and advocate for LGBTQ rights. Neira’s work includes efforts to end the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy and promote the acceptance of transgender individuals in the military.
While Neira has played a significant role in advocating for transgender rights, critics have accused transgender activists of erasing women by defining female in relation to male and by allowing men into traditionally female-only spaces. Neira’s comment about gendered uniforms, birthing spaces, and showers indicated that progress in achieving gender-neutral environments may not be immediate, but it remains a goal.