Federal Judge Delivers Another Victory to America's Students

The Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network (GLSEN) applauds U.S. District Court Judge William C. O’Kelley’s decision today in favor of a Georgia Gay-Straight Alliance (GSA) that school officials forced off campus.

O’Kelley ruled that White County High School violated the Federal Equal Access Act when it would not allow the school’s P.R.I.D.E Club – Peers Rising in Diversity Education – to meet on campus but allowed other non-curricular clubs access to school resources and facilities.

“This is a victory for all students,” said Kevin Jennings, GLSEN Founder and Executive Director. “Time and time again, judges have ruled that students have the right to meet on campus whether they are a GSA, Bible Club or Science Club. Some schools are wasting time and money by making unsound decisions based on prejudices. Equal Access means equal access.”

The decision places a permanent injunction forcing White County High School to allow the GSA and other non-curricular clubs to meet on campus. The ruling is consistent with judicial precedent in such cases.

GLSEN is proud of the bravery shown by Kelly Pacer, P.R.I.D.E. President and GLSEN Respect Award Winner, and the American Civil Liberties Union in standing up for the rights of GSAs to meet on school campuses.

About GLSEN
GLSEN, or the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network, is the leading national education organization focused on ensuring safe schools for ALL students. Established nationally in 1995, GLSEN envisions a world in which every child learns to respect and accept all people, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity/expression. For more information on GLSEN’s educational resources, public policy and public education work, student organizing programs, research or development initiatives, visit www.glsen.org.