Saint Mary’s College, an all-girls college, is facing criticism from National Review reporter Caroline Downey for its consideration of admitting transgender students. The controversy arises as The Ohio State University offers a health sciences program that includes discussions and assignments on gender and race, raising questions about privilege. The course, titled “Individual Differences in Patient/Client Populations,” is part of the university’s School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences and has received an Affordable Learning Exchange (ALX) grant.
Documents related to the online course in autumn 2023 were obtained through a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request by Do No Harm, a group advocating against a divisive ideology in healthcare. One of the assignments, titled “Unpack the Invisible Knapsack,” asks students to reflect on their privilege. The assignment is based on Peggy McIntosh’s 1989 essay, “White Privilege: Unpacking the Invisible Knapsack,” which examines the concept of white privilege.
The FOIA-obtained documents outline three activities related to privilege: the “White Privilege Knapsack,” the “Heterosexual Privilege Knapsack,” and the “Able-Bodied Privilege Knapsack.” Students can choose to substitute these activities with other topics. The course also includes watching the documentary “White People” and discussing thoughts about race and whiteness.
Critics argue that such assignments promote divisive and political ideologies, leading to intergroup hostility. Dr. Stanley Goldfarb, chairman of Do No Harm, states that universities should focus on equipping future healthcare providers with essential skills and knowledge, rather than engaging in polarizing debates.
In response to the controversy, a spokesperson for The Ohio State University emphasizes the importance of academic freedom and freedom of expression on campus, welcoming all viewpoints.
The consideration of admitting transgender students at Saint Mary’s College and the inclusion of privilege discussions in The Ohio State University’s health sciences program have sparked a broader conversation about the role of politics and ideology in academia. While some see these discussions as necessary for fostering understanding and empathy, others argue that they contribute to divisiveness.
Overall, this controversy highlights the ongoing debate surrounding diversity and inclusion in educational institutions and their potential impact on healthcare training.
