Beyond Her Control

Only an organized religious institution could be this insensitive to the need for love and affection at a time of stress.

Without an expression of a belief in God, this problem is one of God’s choosing and beyong Julie’s control.

My hope is that there is a hell and the people responsible for infliction of pain upon Julie go there.

This should never have become a legal issue. But now that it is, it should be resolved on a motion for summary judgment.

William Sumner Scott, J.D.

Judicial Equality Foundation, Inc.

wss@jefound.org

William Sumner Scott, J.D., at 8:15 am EST on February 6, 2007

The rest of the story

Here are the links to the original reports about this story:

University firing transgender prof http://www.mlive.com/news/jacitpa...s-20/1170587131125380.xml&coll=3

College dean John Nemecek decides to be true to his inner woman http://www.mlive.com/news/jacitpa...es-1/1170587444125380.xml&coll=3

Chad Livengood, reporter at Jackson Citizen Patriot, at 8:20 am EST on February 6, 2007

A lawyer hears the word of God

Mr. Scott apparently would have us believe that his full name and credentials provide him with some measure of special insights into the true feelings of God on matters of transgendered persons. The irony, of course, is that only a member of the vocation that is neither as old or as honorable as the oldest profession is incapable of understanding that there are such things as right and wrong, and that values are not a function of judicial interpretation. Get over yourself W.S.S., J.D. and spare us your legal pontificating.

Scott, at 9:00 am EST on February 6, 2007

discipline is not unkindness

One of the problems that people have with cases like this is that they equate a disciplinary action with being unkind or un-Christian. In fact, holding people accountable for their decisions and actions according to an agreed-upon standard is often not only the responsible thing to do, but also the compassionate thing to do. The fact that Spring Arbor did not summarily dismiss the man upon finding out his perceived problem is an indication that the administration was wanting to be gracious and give the guy a chance. Still, only those at Spring Arbor know the full details and intricacies of the story, so we would be wise not to assign motive to actions.

alp, at 10:55 am EST on February 6, 2007

TRUTH IN A PRONOUN

“We first learned of John’s situation a year ago and have worked closely with him ever since....” Not surprisingly, the PR firm fronting for the college (curiously not an attorney at this point) spins Nemecek’s gender to Spring Arbor University’s belief bias, despite the nascent person whom Julie most certainly is.

“We approach all situations like this with grace and in all cases work with the individual to give them the opportunity for restoration.” Indeed, SAU’s administration needs to look more deeply inward to reflect on and restore its own sadly lapsed grace. Perhaps the student and faculty community can help them recognize that the stranger in their midst is someone they have always known, to whom they should open their door and their arms.

Philoctetes, at 11:01 am EST on February 6, 2007

how is that enough ?

Mr. Manley, What does your quote from the bible have to do with transgendered professors ?

Without agreeing or disagreeing with you (or Mr. Scott) I should note that you are not entitled to “sensitivity” on this issue. You are entitled to rebut other peoples’ arguments, not declare that because your feelings are hurt your arguments have more merit. Because your only authority appears to be a quote regarding abortion, it is difficult to see that you, indeed, have any relevant argument.

Larry, at 12:05 pm EST on February 6, 2007

Where is the Love?

I believe this matter is horrible and all persons should expect to be treated fairly by their employer. It is my hope that Professor N. will be able to live her life on her own terms. A loving God would want this and even a christian university should want a welcoming environment as well.

Ricardo, Prof., at 1:06 pm EST on February 6, 2007

Beam me up, Scotty

Feudi, could you please define “moral turpitude” and explain exactly why you think Dean Nemecek has demonstrated it?

Folks, William Summer Scott gets under my skin sometimes too, but let’s avoid the temptation to commit ad hominem attacks in this forum. Those of us who hide behind our pseudonyms may have good reasons for doing so (I’m an untenured minority, and promise that I’ll ‘come out’ when I’m tenured). But we need to respect those who do use their own names. Anyway, as Jesus put it (or perhaps it was just a bumper sticker), “hate the sin but love the sinner.”

Hoosier Prof, at 1:56 pm EST on February 6, 2007

Biblical Principles

I agree with you, Quizzical, that Julie Nemecek’s GID diagnosis, her treatment under the Harry Benjamin International Gender Dysphoria Association Standards of Care, etc., should be the dispositive issues in this case. However, the point I was trying to make is that SAU is trying to justify its position without specifying the alleged infraction. In discrimination cases the initial burden is upon the Plaintiff to allege facts which, if taken as true, would tend to support the claim of discrimination actions. The burden then shifts to the defendant to produce a nondiscriminatory basis for its actions. In this case SAU has claimed a religious exemption from the nondiscrimination provisions of Title VII and Title IX. So much of the discussion thus far has — directly or indirectly — centered around whether SAU is justified in taking its actions against Professor Nemecek. My point is that until SAU makes its allegations in more than Biblical generalities and implications that Professor Nemecek has somehow violated those general Biblical principles, we cannot really evaluate the merits of its religious-exemption defense. We do not intend to pursue this case using Bible verses as the standard by which SAU’s actions are measured. This case will be prosecuted, if need be, on sound and well-established Title VII and Title IX principles, among others.

Best regards,

Randi Barnabee

Randi Barnabee, at 3:11 pm EST on February 6, 2007

Giving Grades:

Very clever Robert, so ...

Robert = A

Larry = C

William Sumner Scott, J.D. = F

By the way Larry, I could not care less about insults to religious institutions, but my earlier comments were completely germane to William Sumner Scott, J.D.’s post. Oh, did I say William Sumner Scott, J.D.? That’s what I meant to say.

Frizbane Manley, at 3:11 pm EST on February 6, 2007

From Your Resident Biblical Scholar

Obviously Robert’s Biblical support for the Spring Arbor decision-makers is Genesis 5:2. I’ll quote from the King James Version, but all of the translations into English are pretty much the same; to wit ...

“1. This is the book of the generations of Adam. In the day that God created man, in the likeness of God made he him;

2. Male and female created He them; and blessed them, and called their name Adam [Man, human], in the day when they were created.”

http://bible.cc/genesis/5-1.htm

I’ll take it as given that the Bible is the word of God. Either because He couldn’t write ... or didn’t have great penmanship ... or maybe He was just worn out after a long day’s work ... or perhaps because writing was beneath Him ... the Almighty whispered the account of his exploits in the ears of the writers of Genesis. They were His secretaries so to speak.

But if He was anything God was certainly a logician ... and He surely knew the difference between “and,” the inclusive “or,” and the exclusive “or;” and here we see “male AND female.” Apparently each of us is both male and female ... ergo, it is up to each of us to sort it out for ourselves. Some – Ms. Nemecek being one – take a little longer to figure it out than the rest of us.

It borders on being inconsequential, but I would be pleased to have someone disabuse me of my prejudice that there is very little difference between having a cleft palate repaired, having a face lift, having breast implants, getting liposuction, or having vaginoplasty.

Now brothers and sisters, say “Amen!”

Frizbane manley, at 4:45 pm EST on February 6, 2007

What about common sense?

Ol’ Lar, as a legal advocate, will probably tear this to pieces; but as a supporter of the Golden Rule (those with the gold, rule), this is my 10 cents.

Newsflash 1 (NF1): TG/TS is still a jarring event for many people, including students, donors, and the public. Who, contrary the far-left kooks in academia, have the constitutional right to go other places with their money.

NF2: As an assistant dean, defendant serves at discretion of management.

NF3: in a perfect world, Larry and WSS would spend all their time arguing with each other, ice cream would be 5 cents/cone, and The Big Three would U.S.

Well, surprise, surprise, McFly — NF3, we don’t live in a perfect world. Most of us, we want educators to just do their frakin’ jobs and not make us test-rats for some weird-butt theory.

Please. Before we take our money, somewhere else. Thanks.

B.D., at 6:30 pm EST on February 6, 2007

BD, I am not qualified to debate the meaning of the bible, so I won’t. Whether the subject of the article “serves as the discretion” of the management is usually a bit more complicated than just declaring that he/she can be fired at any time for any reason. Deans generally have considerable protections built into their contracts.

I don’t know how “weird” the theories are. Ms. Nemecek is claiming that she was treated unlawfully. This isn’t too strange. What is strange is that her employer bases their decision to terminate her a generalized revulsion to her class of people.

Anyway, I would like to see some rebuttal from the school. They hired a PR firm. You would think they could rebut what Ms. Nemecek and her lawyer have said in terms that are understandable to me and you.

Larry, at 8:20 pm EST on February 6, 2007

Almost Being Friendly

In realize kgotthardt’s response was intended to be both sensitive and supportive, but unless one has “been there” one should not make uninformed recommendations like “... I wonder if Spring Arbor is really the place you want to continue to be. I know if it were me, I would not be fighting to get my job back at a place where I was treated so poorly ...”

Two years ago I was fired from a faculty position at a private, church-related university in the Lower Shenandoah Valley. There is no way for you to confirm this so perhaps you will take my word for the facts that (1) this came at the end of an exemplary forty year career as a college and university professor, (2) I had very high student evaluations during the five years I was at this school, and (3) I was probably fired because I do not suffer fools lightly (the fools being the president, VPAA, and dean ... the latter two were merely pawns of the remarkably authoritarian president). AAUP, ACLU, FIRE, and the Jefferson Center for the Protection of Free Expression all indicated that were I on the faculty of a public university I would have a strong case, but inasmuch as my appointment was at a private university, the likelihood of my “having a winnable case” was zilch.

I have e-mail messages from eighteen of the twenty faculty members in my school expressing their disappointment that I was being terminated, and more than a few hoped I would understand why they could not support my case publicly. Two or three senior faculty made very strong statements of support and promised that they would go to the wall for me,” not that I ever suggested they do so. Frankly, I was a big boy and could take care of myself. Needless to say, those “big talkers” were the first to crawl under their slimy rocks when they did have an opportunity to speak out.

But kgotthardt, I wanted to stay. I had a great deal of affection for my students, I was one of a small number of faculty who challenged them – the good students and the unprepared – in a way that enhanced their personal, academic, and professional growth. I had more students coming to my office for professional assistance than all but one other faculty member in the school. I really liked those kids and had a special relationship with as many as 30% of them.

Frankly, I can imagine why – after 16 years at Spring Arbor – Ms. Nemecek would want to wrap up her career there. Spring Arbor is in a beautiful rural setting in Michigan, and it is a short drive from there to both East Lansing and Ann Arbor.

I don’t know how Ms. Nemecek feels about it, but one of the really important reasons I wanted to stay was that my leaving validated “their” power and in some sense their “rightness.” When she is gone, the rather pathetic, bigoted, religiously intolerant, intellectually challenged few at Spring Arbor – those protectors of Christian piety and moral purity — will have demonstrated that she is unsuited for what she has spent her professional lifetime perfecting and relishing. Her commitment of 16 years to her students and to Spring Arbor will be shown to be worthless in the sight of those “in charge.” I can’t say for sure that she will feel this way, but it just killed me to know that those wretched little people could continue to pursue their authoritarian agenda in the absence of a serious and responsible devil’s advocate. In addition, as a senior faculty member I thought I had a special responsibility to “protect” serious young scholars on our faculty who might be inclined to speak out. In my absence – and especially in my college – the security of the underside of slimy river rocks was the preferred habitat of senior faculty ... and junior faculty are learning the virtues of getting along by going along.

Hang tough Ms. Nemecek.

Frizbane Manley, at 4:25 am EST on February 7, 2007

Thanks, Frisbane, for adding insight. I completely understand why a dedicated professional would want to continue working with his/her students and didn’t mean to imply that I or anyone else would want otherwise. It sounds like you HAD something to return to—friends, supportive colleagues, and your students. Perhaps Julie (Ms. Nemecek) has the same.

If this is the case with Ms. Nemecek, maybe it’s the administration that needs to go so she can return, eh? That would possibly help create the diversity-appreciating university I mentioned earlier. Who knows. Change is always possible.

Anyway, I am sorry if I made too many presumptions in this case. I only have my own frame of reference, and while that includes about the same amount of time invested in higher education as Ms. Nemecek had at Spring Arbor, my time has not been spent at a single institution as is the case with you and Ms. Nemecek. I am contract, untenured, and I am sure this makes a difference. But in response to your implied query if I have “been there,” I can say yes, in a manner, I have. So yes, Ms. Nemecek and Frisbane: Hang Tough.

kgotthardt, at 8:45 am EST on February 7, 2007

No, you are not.

Mr. Nemecek, you stated: “I know the last may sound hokey, but that is also part of the transsexual, feminist, activist, Christian woman I am! :)”

You are not a woman. You are a male, married to a female, not willing to have a sex change operation to make your body fit what you say your insides feel. You knew when hired at SAU that this would never be allowed. I can’t believe you are fighting the university on this.

Yes, you have the right to live your life anyway you see fit. However, you do not have the right to force that life on anyone else. There are parents who send their young adults to SAU based on the principles and values they know the university and church up hold. A male professor dressing as a female goes against many of those principles and values. They have every right to say that you cannot teach or work at their university.

AndersonTaxi, at 10:25 am EST on February 7, 2007

Sorry

I have to feel sorry for Mr/s Nemecek for the inner turmoil he/she has been suffering...and I can’t imagine the inner turmoil that will be experienced in the future as he/she attempts to balance the years of fine service to an institution and it’s students with his current/future actions that are seemingly hostile. As a teacher, I hope to look back someday and think that I made a positive difference in the lives of my students. The focus on this story has done and will continue to do a lot of damage. The question I ask is, how is Jesus being lifted up in the midst of all this?The one thing I need to constantly remind myself as a Christian, is that it’s never about me...but it’s about Jesus.

Many will never understand what I am talking about. I am sorry for that.

Bill, Teacher, at 10:25 am EST on February 8, 2007

Sister Mary Kay, Stat to SAU

As a graduate of SAU and having been raised in this unique community for the formative and foundational years of my life, this new saga in edgy diversity is but another You’re-not-in-Kansas-anymore challenges for a city that never wakes. While I may not tightly embrace every interpretation and expectation of the University’s core values—I respect those values and the great heritage they represent. My parents helped set them in the cornerstone and invested much in change and children to their continuation. As a student, I was always surprised at my colleagues who chose the University and then spent four years attempting to change it. The University does no bait and switch—every applicant and every faculty member is fully aware of the setting they are stepping into. The University has built a beautiful campus and broadened its scope and services through the years—funded also by benevolent benefactors who embrace those values and support the vision of this institution. While this incident has been parenthesized and amplified in the ettention of all right now—the University has, in my opinion, demonstrated compassion, understanding and tolerance in many issues and interventions in recent years that have been handled with dignity and privacy. For the life of me, I really don’t understand Julie’s desire to complete her metamorphosis here. I have enjoyed reading all the responses and recommendations of the learned individuals weighing in on the issue. Sometimes, I wonder if we would all benefit from a little redneck reality check or have we become so trendily all-embracing and anchorless we’ve lost our What-the-hell-is-going-on-here? knee-jerk response. I know the people of this community and they will be kind and courteous. They will be respectfully quiet. There will be no jokes—though personally, we’ve got some material here that could fill three seasons of Mad TV. SAU values and vision are not things they alone created—they are part of a continuum begun long before they were part of it, and they will continue long after any resolution is reasched in this impasse. You see, the same determination that has Julie’s skirt twirling also steels the resolve of those who simply feel this gender jumping journey is a distraction from the goals of the University. Let it go. Offer it up. Move on to a setting that will embrace the story. Besides, what self-respecting fashion savvy woman would choose to live in the shopping depravity of Spring Arbor and the surrounding area? They still buy makeup from women going door to door.

Igor Blumnlef, at 11:01 am EST on February 8, 2007

The Spring Arbor Concept

All members of the Spring Arbor University faculty cheerfully subscribe to the “Spring Arbor University Concept,” which calls for “total commitment to Jesus Christ as the perspective for learning, and critical participation in the contemporary world.”

It was Christ who, in response to a certain controversy, said “Have ye not read, that he which made them at the beginning made them male and female, and said, ‘For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother and shall cleave to his wife: and they twain shall be one flesh’?” (Matthew 19:4-5).

Jesus is quoting Moses, who also wrote, “The woman shall not wear that which pertaineth unto a man, neither shall a man put on a woman’s garment: for all that do so are an abomination unto the LORD thy God” (Deuteronomy 22:6).

Neither one’s gender nor God’s character are subject to change. This is the “perspective for learning, and critical participation” at Spring Arbor University.

John Hayden, M.Div., SAU Adjunct Faculty

John Hayden, Adjunct instructor at Speing Arbor University, at 2:51 pm EST on February 8, 2007

In response to John Hayden’s remarks:

First, I am glad that somebody took the courage to lay the information out on the table. Up to this point, I had been reading about this story and wondering what the specific reasons were for the actions which were taken. Now I know.

Secondly, I want to point out that “male” and “female” is much more than simply one’s sexual organs. After all, the terms “sex” and “gender” are not equivalent... though it seems that many presume they are. Sex refers to the physical differences that are (except in some rare cases) evident at birth. Gender is not something one can see, however. Gender is more of a label that is socially created and assigned. Gender describes one’s personality, behavior, and thoughts — which are considerably more ambiguous than physical human anatomy in determining whether one is “male” or “female” in terms of gender.

While your Biblical argument works in addressing homosexuality as being a sin, it fails to address how GID affects jobworthiness or fails to “adhere to the concept.” In fact, if the Bible is referring to “males” and “females” as genders, who is to say that a man with more of a “female” personality cannot rightfully join with a man who has more of a “male” personality. Could that not also be right in the eyes of God? I find it difficult when large presumptions are made about God... it makes me fear that God is simpler than I hope God is. After all, if the God spoken of in Deuteronomy (the Biblical book from which you took the latter scriptural quote) were to judge mankind — I cannot help but think that all on earth would end in eternal damnation.

Thank God for the pure love of Jesus Christ... the one who loves all of humanity’s outcasts and the one who humbles all of humanity’s pious.

May we all search for wisdom through these difficult times. My heart goes out to you, Julie, for taking these difficult steps which I have not had the courage to take. Peace be with you and those close to you in your difficult journey ahead.

David, Former Student at Spring Arbor University, at 4:25 am EST on February 9, 2007

SAU and me

For those that are interested, I fully support SAU’s statement of faith. When I hired on I was never informed that discovering and honoring how God has made me would be grounds for dismissal.

As to Deuteronomy 22 and context, it also says to stone to death any non-virgin bride or stubborn son. Any activists groups for these causes?

Julie Nemecek, at 1:50 pm EST on February 9, 2007

Couldn’t find deeper pockets?

” .. I ask all of you who are critical of .. transsexuals in general to consider whether what you have understood about human sexuality might be open to revision ..”

Great. A small, modest college gets to fund a long, expensive legal battle.

University of Michigan not big enough? Pity.

B.D., at 8:35 pm EST on February 9, 2007

What Does The Law Actually Say?

While the federal employment law, Title VII, contains an exception for religious institutions in some cases, Spring Arbor University is going to have a difficult time proving a legal “Bona Fide Occupational Qualification” because they don’t require other professors to conform to their religious principles, and they hire professors of all religions. You can read more about the legal angle at my blog, http://jweissdiary.blogspot.com

Dr. Jillian T. Weiss, Ramapo College, at 12:30 pm EST on February 10, 2007

B.D. and Deeper Pockets

B.D. asked “Why not the U-of-M, pockets not deep enough?”

Actually, U of M’s pockets are probably much deeper than Spring Arbor’s — but that is not the point. Julie Nemecek works for Spring Arbor, not U of M. Spring Arbor is the institution that is discriminating in violation of federal law, not U of M. In fact, as soon as the Sixth Circuit decision Smith v. City of Salem was issued, U of M modified its nondiscrimination policy to include “discrimination based on gender identity and gender expression".

Spring Arbor can still avoid protracted and expensive litigation — all it has to do is cease its discriminatory actions and do the right thing by Julie Nemecek. On the other hand, if Spring Arbor fails to do the right thing then it reaps what it sows. Ask the City of Salem, Ohio, what discriminating against Fire Department Lieutenant Jimmie Smith cost. Better yet, look at the verdict award and attorney fee awards the City of Cincinnati incurred for its decision to continue discriminating against Police Officer Philicia Barnes.

The choice for Spring Arbor seems like a no-brainer of a decision to make.

Randi Barnabee, Julie Nemecek’s Attorney, at 7:10 am EST on February 11, 2007

Of course

” .. Spring Arbor can still avoid protracted and expensive litigation ..”

Why, yes — Spring Arbor owes everything to one employee. And nothing to its alumni, students, other employees, et al. How logical.Those opposing alumni, students, et al., are so selfish and mean. They must be forced to accept non-heteronormativity, including, but not limited to, support by the Michigan National Guard.

B.D., at 10:05 pm EST on February 11, 2007

How can the Printed Word by blindly followed

Sorry and Ann appear to have missed the higher education purpose —

The printed word of 2,000 years ago cannot be used as justification for thought contrary to current medical opinion.

Quizzical, at 10:10 pm EST on February 13, 2007

Intellectually Dishonest

Dana,

What I think is un-Christian is being dishonest.

Prof. Nemecek is still, by his own admission, a he. The above story quotes, “Nemecek ... does not plan to undergo sexual reassignment surgery in part due to her respect for her marriage.”

I understand he wants to be called she, but he is not.

I don’t harbor any ill-will towards Prof. Nemecek; quite the contrary. I know he must be suffering mightily with everything swirling around him. And I hope he encounters only people who love him and are lovely to him. But being dishonest isn’t loving.

Why can’t we simply respect the beliefs of others? If Prof. Nemecek wants to continue being Julie, that’s fine. But he and his supporters should offer the same respect to those believe that one’s gender is not fluid, and he should chose to continue his transformation elsewhere.

This situation highlights the need for tolerance, and tolerance should go both ways, shouldn’t it?

Thanks for listening, Dana.Ann

Ann, at 10:26 am EST on February 14, 2007

Prof. Nemecek,This, as I’m sure you’re painfully aware, is a new situation to some, including me. As a Christian I want to respond to you as Jesus would. But I’m not entirely sure what that looks like. Obviously shunning you or calling you names is not the answer, but I don’t think accepting GID at face value is the solution, either. It feels to me like you’re saying God made a mistake in how he formed you. Is that a correct assumption?

I certainly appreciate your patience as those like me are attempting to noodle this out.

Ann, at 10:50 am EST on February 15, 2007

No Mistake

Hi Anne — It is no more of a mistake than any other birth or biological difference. My primary care physician compares it to his ADD. Some things are “curable” and other things require lerning how to live with them the best we can. It doesn’t mean God made a mistake in making any of us or all of us different. Gender identity issues are seen in almost all living creatures.

John- There is a distinction between moral affirmtion and acknowledgng basic human rights. T’s share many of the same civil rights concerns as GLBs and often align for political purposes but gender identity is something quite different than sexual orientation. Spring Arbor University teaches these distinctions in both their undergrad and grad courses. They also teach an affirming understanding of my diagnosis and treatment. I understand that Harvard’s admission applications do not ask about sexual orientatin but they do provide a spot to say male, female, or transgender.

Julie Nemecek, at 12:36 pm EST on February 15, 2007

I find it interesting that “Julie” who strongly believes in the Christian faith apparently believes that God was wrong when He made her a man to start with.

What I see as wrong with the majority of these situations is they do not look at God as being omnipotent and omniscient. The God who knows the number of the very hairs on their head. The God who made them male or female — not transgender.

Apparently Julie and many other professing Christians want God to be the God of their own feelings, beckoned whim, or agenda’s.

Julie, I would say it is not to late to repent, to go and sin no more as Jesus often told those he healed or forgave. At the least you should get alone and pray and seek God.

Clearly, you have been deceived by satan or your own thoughts and desires.

Steve, at 2:35 pm EST on February 15, 2007

The love of an omniscient God

Steve- I do believe in an omniscient God has created a much more diverse creation than some people wish to see. I also believe that the Holy Spirit convicts of sin not self-appointed surrogates. My relation with God has grown though all of this. Worship has become more precious (I attend a Bible preaching church every Sunday), the fruits of the Spirit more pronounced in my life, and the sense of God’s omnipresence and leading almost palpable. We all have things to repent about. My gender identity and affirmation of that are not in that category.

julie nemecek, at 4:26 pm EST on February 15, 2007

Julie Given your statements I am confounded as to why you feel compelled to force this issue.It truly does not appear to be something that would be done if you are walking in love. Surely, you can look at this objectively and see how this is not a Christian like action.

If you are growing closer with God and feel this incident is making you closer, I have to question what prompted you to go this direction after a number of years functioning in a “normal” fashion.

As a Baptist pastor (as described) I am sure you would tell someone who came to you wanting to divorce a loving wife and mary someone he met (with the belief that it was God’s will for him) that that would not be God’s will for him.

I picture one of the devil’s minions having influence over this decision of yours much like what is described in C.S. Lewis — The Screwtape Letters.

Please remember your life on this earth is temporal and that your spiritual life is what is important. Don’t sacrifice that for a brief time of pleasure or satisfaction in this life. This is what I am trying to express — it is the effect of your actions n others (especially the young students) that are most concerning.

steve, at 9:10 pm EST on February 15, 2007

Steve and Scriptural Quotes

Steve-

Your last post seems to be missing something — namely anything suggesting that Professor Nemecek’s GID and/or its treatment are immoral. It is not enough to simply label it so; I would like to know which of the commandments or other edicts found in the Bible Julie is violating. Thus far neither you, SAU, nor anyone else has been able to do anything more than make general unsupported assertions that Julie and/or her actions are immoral or somehow not in keeping with Biblical principles.

Moreover, these assertions are all based upon assumptions. For example, one assumption is that people are EITHER male or female and that there are no circumstances or conditions that might render a person not completely one or the other.

Another assumption is that there are only two sexes, when what we as a society have actually done is limit ourselves to just those two choices despite statistically recurring evidence to the contrary.

Yet another assumption is that the sex a doctor proclaims a child to be upon delivery at birth (based almost always upon a cursory viewing of the baby’s genitals) is correct. Chromosomal tests are rarely ever conducted absent some apparent genital anomaly, and even those cannot detect all possible genetic and/or congenital variations. While one’s genitals are USUALLY a good indicator of one’s overall sex, they are not the ONLY indicator. In recent decades medical science has shown us that human sexuality is much more than the sum of one’s genitals, and that one’s sex may be determined — and discerned — by the totality of a number of varying factors, of which genital formation is just one.

Did God create Julie? Undoubtedly, as far as I am concerned. Did God make a mistake in giving her GID? Who knows? Is God responsible for all genetic and congenital birth defects? Again, who knows? If life — and God’s creation of it — begin at conception, then perhaps anomalies that occur between conception and birth are not God’s doing. I don’t pretend to know that, either. However, unless one is willing to say that NO genetic or congenital anomaly should be corrected because that is how God made that person, there is no reason to castigate Julie or anyone else for seeking medical intervention. We as a society seek medical interventions and corrections all the time, and Julie is no different just because the intervention she seeks makes some uncomfortable with their long-held assumptions.

The truth is that although God made Julie, it was a human who labeled her male at birth; it is humans who are insisting that she continue to conform to their behavioral stereotypes for males in accordance with that initial label — regardless of how inappropriate and spiritually damaging such conformity may be. I don’t pretend to know the will of God, and it would be refreshing if others refrained from doing so as well.

Randi, Julie Nemecek’s Attorney, at 9:20 am EST on February 16, 2007

Randi, JulieMy first comment is that you can know the will of God by reading his Word of instruction to us — the Bible. If it is against the precepts and principles of the Bible then it is against God’s will.

My second comment is God created John (not Julie). And John was obviously content being John for a number of years.

How incredulous to link GID with birth defects. GID is a choice that is accepted (or rejected).

The thought that there is more than male or female in the human race is just ludicrous from a Christian standpoint, and I suspect a scientific standpoint as well.

My intent is not to ridicule Julie, but to help restore John. As a Baptist Pastor he of all people should be aware of what the Word of God says.

James 5:20 remember this: Whoever turns a sinner from the error of his way will save him from death and cover over a multitude of sins.Julie is not sinning by society’s standards, however, by misleading others and discrediting the Christian faith he is sinning according to the Lord. Now, all have sin and fallen short — but that is why Jesus preached repentance. Jesus did not seek his own will but the will of His father. And that is the standard we are to live. We are to seek the will of God not our own.

Luke 17:2It would be better for him to be thrown into the sea with a millstone tied around his neck than for him to cause one of these little ones to sin.

Romans 1:18The wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of men who suppress the truth by their wickedness, 19since what may be known about God is plain to them, because God has made it plain to them. 20For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse.

John — I hope you will seek and listen to the Holy Spirit on this issue. This will be my last post as it appears your mind is made up.

Anne — Just a note:As a Christian John lives by different standards than society’s. Christian’s who have a relationship with God know this. Since Julie says this has made him closer to the Lord I will assume this is the case for him. As such, he also knows that God gives us example and instruction that this life is not to be about us or our desires.

If John was just anyone in society then I would say he is obviously confused (my opinion in light of the Word of God) and has the right to do with his life whatever he has determined. However, John confesses that he is a Christian — that holds him to a higher standard.

Steve, at 11:16 am EST on February 16, 2007

Re: Steve, Christianity, and Science

Steve said: “The thought that there is more than male or female in the human race is just ludicrous from a Christian standpoint, and I suspect a scientific standpoint as well.”

Kathy: Steve, Steve, Steve. I invite you to go to any reputable medical library and look at actual pictures of individuals born with ambiguous genitalia or research the genetic variants of sexual development in those same books. Your assertions that there can’t possibly be variations is against the truth of this world and of God. Do you want the truth to set you free or do you wish to live unknowing and uncaring and condemning of those who don’t fit your predescribed notions of how the world ought to be. You are not quoting the Bible, you are quoting the gospel according to Steve when you wield as a battering ram scriptural ideas out of context. Own up to it and open your eyes to the many wonderful yet different possibilities that the Lord allows. We as Christians have the responsibility to embrace in love this consequence of an imperfect world.

Kathy Volke, at 4:55 pm EST on February 16, 2007

Hello,Being a student at SAU I have to say this all has been a bit of a whirlwind. This goes beyond controversy and steps into a quite different realm. ***Note: For those who don’t agree with some of what I’m about to say I apologize.*** Watching the reaction to all of this has been tough. Fear, anger, confusion, among other things have been obvious around campus. As a student body we sadly stand divided. Transgender issues are quite the grey area. I actually have quite a bit of experience with this issue considering I have a family member who is transgender. Thier decision was made well before they became a Christian and I know that speaking with them now there are certain regrets. Overall I love them and support them and would never think of them in any other way. So with that said if I knew you I would still look at you mostly the same.

The issue I face was stated earlier on. As I watch the reactions from the student body I’m saddened. Not only by the anger from them but the fact that division has happened. Those of us who believe in Satan know that division is one of his favorite things. Division in the home from divorce causes deep pain for the rest of the family’s life. (I know this hurt too.) Division in a sports team can lead only to defeat. As a great man once said, “United we stand, divided we fall.” Regardless of the medical implications or legalities the bottom line is that this issue is causing division. It may not have been your intentions Ms. Nemecek but it is happening. I can see that you do somewhat care for Spring Arbor University and the students that attend. The sad matter is that opinions do not change easily and even if you have won a small battle here, many offended students and parents will leave. I fear that the campus that you love, may be a bit bare if you were to return as a woman.

I’m pretty sure that God hates division. We can look to many Bible references to this and find many examples of God’s view. ***As for those who are going to comment on my use of scripture as an attempt to browbeat please save server space. I won’t post those references because Ms. Nemecek should know of those to which I’m refering.***

In conclusion, this being my only post, I will say that I would love to sit down and talk with Ms. Nemecek without legal representation to gain a true grasp on her point of view. This is a rather interesting debate though I am concerned that there are those who are choosing to diminish the beliefs of others (mainly the Christians that choose to post) in the name of saving another’s view? Rather contradictory isn’t it? Thank you for your time.

James, at 5:50 am EST on February 17, 2007

Contracts, diagnosis, and the Bible

I don’t recall anything in my contracts with SAU that bound the school to honor any prescribed treatment for a diagnosed medical condition that contradicted their conscientious application of Seripture.

The New Testament says that the “effeminate...shall not inherit the kingdom of God” (1 Cor 6:9). At least one responsible translator renders this “those who make women of themselves” (Darby).

This POSSIBLY refers to some sort of prostitution at Corinth. Are you willing to bet your soul on it?

Paul goes on to say, “...Such were some of you...but you were sanctified...” (v 11).

John Hayden, at 11:35 am EST on February 17, 2007

Darby

Darby that you quote was the founder of the cult known as Darbyism. He was branded as a heretic by his own followers.

Julie Nemecek, at 8:50 pm EST on February 17, 2007

Clarification

What I intended to imply—and should have explained—is that IF the passage in question (1 Cor 6:9) has to do with male prostitution, as SOME SAY it does, then it is not relevant to Dr. Nemecek. If the Anglican J.B. Phillips is correct, then the more general “effeminate” is preferable—and frighteningly relevant. Some of the Christians at Corinth had been “cleansed” of it.

A young SAU student said to me recently that, as he understood it, all sin might be viewed as simply being “true” to one’s natural inborn tendencies.

John Hayden, at 5:30 pm EST on February 18, 2007

Questions & Answers

As I said, “This POSSIBLY refers to some sort of prostitution at Corinth. Are you willing to bet your soul on it?”

You answer my question, and I’ll answer yours.

Thank you, friend. :)

John Hayden, at 7:05 pm EST on February 18, 2007

Odd comparison

“Are we to suppose that schools like Harvard .. are simply naive to tolerate groups that make no moral discinction (sic) between “Bisexual ..”

Why, yes .. a school with a $30 billion endowment has all the intelligence in the world. Of course, SAU should be forced to follow Fair Harvard’s lead. Tally-ho!

Clayton Bigsby, at 8:26 am EST on February 19, 2007

Support

John — I find it interesting that you are very careful to avoid Jesus’ words about not judging but rather loving unconditionally, but perhaps you don’t think these verses apply to you? Here’s a verse in support of how I have chosen to live: “Whatever you do ,. . . do it all for the glory of God.” As God directs my life, I follow even if people like you don’t like it, for gratefully I serve Him and not you.

Julie Nemecek, at 1:20 pm EST on February 19, 2007

Ann and John

To Ann I would say that Julie has responded to you better than I can. I would just add that I sincerely doubt, Ann, that you would challenge your physician on a diagnosis of say, diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis. Then why do you challenge a diagnosis of GID? I’ve studied sex and gender from a biological perspective for forty years and presented to the world’s leading scientists. I can tell you and Mr. Hayden that there is a world out there of which you have absolutely no clue. Mr. Hayden seems to be completely uninterested.

Oh, and Julie’s sex is female. Male genitals do not make an individual male. One can make a crude definition of sexuality based on gamete production, with the producers of small gametes being male and larger gametes being female, but that has nothing to do with genitalia. One can have testes and produce sperm with no penis for their delivery, or even with a partial vagina in its stead. These are scientific realities, and cannot be questioned rationally by anyone’s religious faith. The primary sex organ is the brain. Without it, there would be no production of hormones or sperm, in the case of males. And that brain sex is manifested in the mind as gender. It really isn’t complicated.

Given the range of diversity in nature, I would find it hard to credit God with having made a mistake, in Julie’s case or any others. Because then there are boatloads of “mistakes” out there — at least 2.2% of all live births are intersex.

Dana Beyer, M.D., at 4:25 am EST on February 20, 2007

I’ve been following this discussion for some time now and have finally decided to comment. I have a few questions and comments for John Hayden:

You paraphrase Deuteronomy in regards to “gender-blending wearables.” Are you implying that all women should stop wearing pants and only wear skirts and dresses? Is it not just merely our society who have made dresses and skirts a feminine article of clothing? Lest we forget that the clothing we wear is, essentially, only a body covering — not an indication of our salvation.

I would also like to point out that while your reference to Genesis does confirm a creation of ‘male’ and ‘female’ it does not discount the possibility of there being an in between.

On a side note, and just to get it off my chest: For the record, I am a former Spring Arbor University student and it is the school’s unwillingness to accept anything outside of it’s realm that caused me to leave. There’s a reason they call it the “Spring Arbor Bubble.” When you’re in it you seem to lost all touch with reality. Which, I’ve found is the largest problem of those who have reacted so negatively toward Julie.

Tricia Kregg, at 1:25 pm EST on February 21, 2007

Re: Name Change

As a friend of Dr. Nemecek, I wish to post that effective today she is now legally Julie Nemecek. She went to court today and was granted a legal name change. No more John.

Kathy Volke, at 4:55 pm EST on February 23, 2007

First Amendment

It’s shocking to me that the First Amendment hasn’t appeared in this lengthy discussion.

Quizzical says that Spring Arbor’s arguments “pale in comparison” to some factual points he thinks are important, but this case is pretty straightforward.

Does Spring Arbor have any 1) First Amendment “academic freedom” to select professors as they feel appropriate to convey their values? 2) Are “civil rights” regulations by the state or federal government that protect disability, sex, or gender identity applicable in the context of religious employers or do they violate the doctrines of separation and the religous establishment clauses?

The facts in this case are fairly straightforward — despite the metaphysical debate on what God Himself would actually prefer here (I have sympathy for the liberal argument that he’d seek forgiveness and compassion) — the question for government is whether it should regulate what **people believe God would prefer**. As misguided as you think Spring Arbor is, in a free society people have a right to be misguided to a certain extent.

As to “disability", and the ADA, it seems rather clear that Mr(s). Nemecek has no inability to perform his job and no inability to perform it dre