More women’s universities in Japan are starting to accept trans students, marking a positive move towards greater inclusivity.

Currently six establishments accept trans women, while one plans to in the future, a nationwide survey conducted by the Mainichi Shimbun between September and October found. A total of 60 universities were polled, with 40 responding. 

Among the six that responded that they “allow” trans women to enrol, two are public institutions: Tokyo’s Ochanomizu University and Nara Women’s University.

The other four are private: Japan Women’s University, Tsuda University (both Tokyo), Miyagi Gakuin Women’s University (Miyagi) and Notre Dame Seishin University (Okayama). 

In July, Fukuoka Women’s University announced that it will start accepting trans women from 2029. 

The survey further revealed that another 16 establishments are open to the possibility of accepting trans students, while five of them shared they “are seriously considering it”. 

Seventeen universities responded that they “do not approve” the acceptance of trans students, with most citing a lack of facilities such as multi-purpose restrooms. 

As reported by the Tokyo Weekender, a representative from a women’s university in Western Japan cited the country’s legal frameworks for the reason universities may not accept trans students. 

They said: “In Japan, legal frameworks concerning sexual minorities, including transgender individuals, are insufficient, and societal discussions have not progressed. Without a clear vision for promoting understanding, gaining the understanding of students and parents requires a certain amount of time and careful dialogue.”

The slow move towards inclusivity follows a “significant step backward” for the country after a court ruled its ban on same-sex marriage constitutional. 

The decision handed down by Tokyo’s High Court on 28 November outlined that Japan‘s ban on equal marriage does not violate Article 24 (1) and (2) or Article 14(1) of the Constitution.

The judgement is the final ruling in a series of six high court lawsuits on same-sex marriage that were filed between 2019 and 2021 in cities including Tokyo, Osaka and Sapporo. With all the high court decisions now made, a Supreme Court ruling is expected.

Share your thoughts! Let us know in the comments below, and remember to keep the conversation respectful.

The post Women’s universities in Japan are slowly starting to accept trans students appeared first on PinkNews | Latest lesbian, gay, bi and trans news | LGBTQ+ news.