Here’s another sad reminder of the current political climate: Texas Southern University, an institution with a history of advancing education and equity, has made a baffling decision. The historically black university has appointed Shawn Thierry as Executive Director for Policy and Counsel, despite her well-documented record of supporting anti-trans policies.
Thierry, a former Texas state representative, recently abandoned the Democratic Party after her own constituents booted her from office. Her shameless pivot included endorsing Donald Trump and championing anti-trans policies under the guise of protecting children. Now, TSU has chosen to reward her with a powerful new role, despite its mission of being “committed to ensuring equality.” Unless you’re a trans kid, apparently.
TSU’s official announcement, filled with the usual pleasantries, paints Thierry as a policy expert and advocate for “vulnerable populations.” Let’s be clear: Vulnerable populations do not include right-wing politicians looking for relevance.
Thierry’s record speaks for itself. Her sudden party switch came after she supported harmful anti-trans legislation, sparking justified backlash from real Democrats who saw through her performative concern. When she lost her primary bid last year, rather than reflecting on why her own constituents rejected her, she doubled down, embracing MAGA politics and endorsing Trump for president. Until recently she’s been director of political strategy for an anti-trans policy group.
Among other questionable choices, Thierry also reposted a video on X shared by Libs Of TikTok — an extreme anti-LGBTQ+ account that has been linked to multiple bomb threats against gyms, schools, and hospitals.
And yet, TSU decided this was the kind of person they wanted in a leadership role. Thierry is now tasked with advising the Board of Regents on policy matters, coordinating special projects, and providing “strategic and legal counsel.”
The university’s leadership has, predictably, tried to spin this as a win. “The Honorable Shawn Thierry is recognized nationally for her policy advocacy and legislative effectiveness, especially on behalf of vulnerable populations,” TSU Board of Regents Chairman Brandon L. Simmons gushed.
Thierry’s own statement on her new job was filled with self-congratulatory nonsense. “As an alumna of the Thurgood Marshall School of Law, returning to TSU is an honor and a blessing,” she declared. Funny, because many of the students, faculty, and alumni who actually believe in justice and equality probably feel the opposite about her return.
