The Trump administration has rescinded federal protections for transgender students in public schools that allowed them to use restrooms and locker rooms that correspond to their gender identity. While federal law remains the same and the interpretation of Title IX will ultimately be decided in the courts, this latest move does much to undermine the safety and security teachers know all of their students deserve.
“It is outrageous that the current presidential administration would sanction discrimination in this manner,” said CEA President Sheila Cohen. “As educators, we prioritize ensuring safe, equitable educational opportunities for all students.”
Cohen continued, “Here in Connecticut we have laws that ensure young people will not be discriminated against based on their gender identity or expression. All students in this country deserve those same protections, and we hope more states will follow Connecticut’s lead.”
She added, “A recent study that showed that the legalization of same-sex marriage was linked to a decrease in adolescent suicide attempts highlights the serious implications that policies can have on students’ mental health. Rescinding these protections is a dangerous step backward for our country.”
Below are a number of resources to assist educators and schools.
- Guidelines that assist schools in complying with Connecticut’s gender identity and expression non-discrimination laws.
- Schools in Transition: A Guide for Supporting Transgender Students in K12 Schools.
- Legal Guidance on Transgender Students’ Rights.
- Resources from GLSEN to implement a safe schools campaign.
