Anti-trans rights activist Riley Gaines to give Adrian College commencement address

Adrian College's choice of 2024 commencement speaker is stirring controversy on campus, with some critics worrying that the issue is pulling attention away from graduates.

Riley Gaines is scheduled to give the commencement address to Adrian's graduating class on May 5. Gaines became prominent in conservative circles after becoming an avid opponent of transgender athletes' right to participate in women's sports. The issue has caused a rift in the campus community as LGBTQ+ students and their families voice discomfort with Gaines’ presence on such an important day.

Senior graphic design designer major Cheyenne Muse, 21, of Britton, said she's upset that the focus of her graduation ceremony has shifted from a celebration to a debate.

"As someone who graduated (high school) in 2020, I didn't get the chance to celebrate with friends and peers," Muse said. "Now that I've finally persevered through undergraduate during a pandemic, I don't want to sit through a commencement where my peers are bashed for their existence, gender identity or orientation."

A petition organized by Adrian’s LGBTQ+ student organization, Safe Place, gained more than 400 signatures in its first day of circulation.

“Riley Gaines has been known for her controversial stands that are far from inclusive. Her presence at such an important event could potentially harm those who support or belong to our community,” Safe Place wrote in the petition. “We must create an environment where everyone feels respected and valued, especially during such significant moments as graduation.”

Located in Michigan's southern Lenawee County, Adrian College is a private liberal arts college affiliated with the United Methodist Church. Founded in 1859, the college hosts classes of about 1,700 students, according to U.S. News and World Report.

Adrian College President Jeffrey Docking said Gaines brings with her an "important issue" to be discussed at universities across the country.

“Adrian College has never shied away from presenting and debating substantive disagreements on campus. In fact, this is precisely the purpose of universities — to engage in civil discourse of controversial issues," Docking said in a news release. "We welcome Riley Gaines to our beautiful campus, and we feel confident our students will be inspired by her commencement address.”

Social media responses range from supportive to angry, with some excited about Gaines' speech and others distraught over her anticipated presence.

"Although powerful female activists are commendable, think about what example are you setting here for current and future students. Your actions have consequences," wrote alum Elizabeth Hume on Facebook.

A former NCAA competitive swimmer, Gaines gained notoriety in 2022 after tying in the University of Kentucky in the 200-yard NCAA freestyle championship race against University of Pennsylvania swimmer Lia Thomas. Thomas had become the first transgender female to win an NCAA Division 1 championship title the day before.

Following her loss, Gaines went on to campaign against transgender athletes' participation in women's sports, inspiring state Rep. Jaime Greene, R-Richmond, to introduce the Female Athletics Integrity of Records Act in May to "protect female athletes and make sure they have a fair playing field in Michigan." She also petitioned for the title to be transferred to her from Thomas, ultimately failing.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Adrian College commencement speaker: Anti-trans activist Riley Gaines