A Resolution of the Carleton Student Association
31 May 2004
Whereas, The American Red Cross does not accept blood donations from those who are at increased risk of becoming infected with HIV, including men who have had sex with other men since 1977, even once;
Whereas, The American Red Cross policy and definition or behaviors leading to increased risk of HIV infection is dictated by the Food and Drug Administration; and
Whereas, The American Red Cross defers blood donation from men who have has sex with other men since 1977 for their lifetime while deferring other high-risk populations, including those who have had sex with intravenous drug users, from only twelve months; and
Whereas, The American Red Cross tests donated blood multiple times and these tests are more effective then those available at the time the deferral policy was established; and
Whereas, Carleton College does not discriminate on the basis of sex, marital status, or sexual orientation; and
Resolved, That the Carleton Student Association is opposed to the lifetime blood donation deferral policy of the American Red Cross for men who have sex with other men since 1977, even once, as we find it outdated and discriminatory;
Resolved, That the Carleton Student Association calls upon the Food and Drug Administration and the American Red Cross to change this deferral policy to reflect current scientific research; and
Resolved, That the Carleton Student Association calls upon the faculty and administration of Carleton College to express their sentiments on this matter, formally and informally; and
Resolved, That the Carleton Student Association fully supports the continued donation of blood and tissues to the American Red Cross by all members of the Carleton community; and
Resolved, That the Carleton Student Association supports further inquiry by the federal government and the American Red Cross into new, more specific questions about risky sexual behavior and into improved ways to ensure the safety of the blood supply.