In a statement released on Tuesday, the MEAC announced it’s plans to keep the conference’s 2017 track and field championships in the state of North Carolina despite the withdrawal of other championship events by athletic organizations in protest to the state’s new laws restricting the rights of LGBTQ people. Below is the full statement released by the conference office.
The Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) Council of Chief Executive Officers has reaffirmed its commitment to diversity and inclusion and its opposition to any form of discrimination. The Council of Chief Executive Officers also supports the LGBTQ community and its rights to identify with their gender. Guided by these fundamental principles, the Council of Chief Executive Officers has voted for the 2017 Outdoor Track & Field Championships to remain in Greensboro, N.C. on the campus of North Carolina A&T State University.
“The MEAC is opposed to the North Carolina Public Facilities Privacy and Security Act (HB 2) and feels that it is discriminatory,” stated MEAC Commissioner Dr. Dennis E. Thomas. “The conference has a commitment to fight discrimination in any way, shape or form and is an advocate for gender equality. Our priorities are the student-athletes, their families and fans of our member institutions and the values we all share. The MEAC will continue to provide an inclusive, diverse, safe and welcoming environment for all at our respective championships.”
The 2017 men’s and women’s outdoor track & field championships is slated to begin on May 4.
