Trulie Nobis
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Rochester, NY 14618
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FAX: 716-273-5331 (c/o NN)
Student Grievance Advisor
Monroe Community College
1000 East Henrietta Road
Rochester, New York 14623
January 28, 2001
To Whom It May Concern:
I am student in the Human Anatomy course at MCC. I plan to become a registered dietician and it is a pre-requisite for that course of study.
On the basis of my deeply-held religious and moral beliefs about the sanctity of life, I cannot participate in the animal dissections which are said to be required for the human anatomy course.
I have petitioned the biology department to allow me to use computer-based learning tools that are alternatives to dissection. I already have these tools in my possession. These tools are widely used at other colleges (including medical and veterinary schools) and educational research shows that students who use them learn as well, or better, than students who dissect.
The biology department has rejected my request to use alternatives. They have told me if I do not perform animal dissections, I can (a) drop out of the class, (b) fail the class, and/or (c) find a new career goal.
Thus, the biology department is discriminating against me on the basis of my religious beliefs.
My understanding is that MCC does not discriminate in its educational policies on the basis of religious beliefs. I ask you to review this case so that I can learn human anatomy but not have to compromise my religious and moral beliefs by dissecting animals.
Enclosed is a letters summarizing my interactions with the biology department. The letter summarizes the statements made by Professors Richard Connett, the chair, and Rachel Simons, my instructor. It also contains critical discussion of their statements in light of educational and legal policies. I think you be surprised by much of what they have to say about the issue.
I would like to meet with you as soon as possible to resolve this issue. Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Trulie Nobis