GLSEN Responds to Court Ruling Upholding Nondiscrimination Protections

GLSEN Applauds Appeals Court Decision

Media Contact:

Kari Hudnell Media Relations Manager press@glsen.org 646-388-6575

 

GLSEN Responds to Court Ruling Upholding Nondiscrimination Protections 

WASHINGTON (April 19, 2016) – GLSEN Director of Public Policy Nathan Smith applauded the 4th Circuit Court of Appeals decision in G.G. v. Gloucester County School Board, which upheld nondiscrimination protections for transgender and gender nonconforming students under Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972.

“Today’s monumental decision reinforces the Obama Administration’s position that Title IX protects transgender and gender nonconforming public school students from discrimination. It is the first time that a federal appeals court has ruled on this specific issue and marks a major turning point that will ultimately solidify nondiscrimination protections for transgender and gender nonconforming students nationwide.

“Over the last couple of years, the Administration has made tremendous strides in protecting transgender and gender nonconforming students, reiterating over and over again that these students are protected from discrimination under Title IX. The 4th Circuit’s decision makes clear that the Administration is well within their bounds in enforcing Title IX under that interpretation. In light of the court’s decision, it is imperative that the Administration issue clear guidance to school districts across the United States on serving transgender and gender nonconforming students under Title IX.”

 The latest edition of GLSEN’s National School Climate Survey found that LGBT students who experienced discrimination and bullying and harassment at school were more than three times as likely to have missed school in the past month as those who did not, had lower GPAs than their peers, and had lower self-esteem and higher levels of depression. GLSEN has created model laws and policies for schools, districts and states to ensure LGBT students are safe and affirmed at school, including a model district policy for accommodating transgender and gender nonconforming students that complies with Title IX.  

 

About GLSEN

GLSEN is the leading national education organization focused on ensuring safe and affirming schools for all students. GLSEN envisions a world in which every child learns to respect and accept all people, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity/expression. GLSEN seeks to develop school climates where difference is valued for the positive contribution it makes to creating a more vibrant and diverse community. For information on GLSEN's research, educational resources, public policy advocacy, student organizing programs and educator training initiatives, visit www.glsen.org.