It's strange to walk down a hallway and realize you know nothing about anyone else.

We try and place labels on everything. We try to simplify issues that are far too complicated.

Transgender is one of them.

Many people don't realize just how much they assume things everyday. If someone looks male or female, we assume they are male or female. If something doesn't fall into our world view, we just block it out.

These all-too-common preconceptions can cause severe pain to others.

It's disappointing that steps to tear down these preconceptions are necessary, but it is the first step to acknowledging limited viewpoints. This is the basis of MSU's current anti-discrimination and anti-harassment policies.

For the acknowledgment and acceptance of transgender students, the term "gender identity" should be added to the anti-discrimination policy. While gender identity was added to MSU's anti-harassment policy in December 2003, including the term in the other policy has not happened. It's about time this policy was amended.

It legitimizes the issue and brings it to the forefront.

There are many possible types of sexuality, which take into account genetics, physical characteristics, sexual preference, outward appearance and desired sexual identity. It's simply that sexuality in humans has many versions. The preconception that there is only one or two possible types of sexuality is wrong.

This is mostly because of the nature of gender. Gender is an ambiguous term which doesn't necessarily coincide with one's sex.

Because of this, it's nearly impossible to identify people based on the clothes they wear or how they present themselves.

The common observer can't tell how someone wishes to be identified. While a person knows how he or she views himself or herself, the clothes he or she wears and how he or she talks does not necessarily change how a stranger will view that person.

However, this doesn't excuse any attitudes of discrimination that might be exhibited toward someone. It's nearly impossible to judge one's major, but there is no discrimination there.

It shouldn't be different for anyone, anywhere.

One's outside appearance should have no effect in society, be it at work, in school or in the law. Discrimination on any grounds is wrong and the school policy should be changed to reflect this.

But it is a difficult issue and won't be solved with merely a clause added to a campus policy.

The problem is those attitudes and preconceptions do still exist and must be changed. This policy is only one part of fostering this change, but it is vital as well. With a change comes a chance for dialogue.

This dialogue will lead to understanding and a better campus environment. We invite the transgender community to share their experiences and views to everyone to help start this dialogue.