California Attorney General Rob Bonta has joined a coalition of 13 attorneys general in filing an amicus brief in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit. The brief supports Skaneateles Central School District’s policy, which aims to protect the privacy and safety of transgender and gender-nonconforming students. This action comes as part of the case Vitsaxaki v. Skaneateles Central School District, where the district’s policy on using students’ chosen names and pronouns is being challenged.
The Northern District of New York had previously dismissed the complaint against the school district, but this decision was appealed by the plaintiff to the Second Circuit. The attorneys general are urging the court to uphold the dismissal.
Attorney General Bonta stated, “School districts have a fundamental responsibility to ensure that all students — including transgender and gender-nonconforming students — have access to education free from discrimination, harassment, and intimidation.” He emphasized that their brief highlights a commitment to protecting student rights regardless of gender identity.
The coalition argues that safeguarding transgender students’ choices about disclosing their identity is vital for their well-being, as they often face harassment at school and in their communities. The brief asserts that:
– The school district’s policy prevents unnecessary disclosure of a student’s gender identity while allowing limited disclosure under specific circumstances.
– The plaintiffs’ approach undermines efforts to make schools safe for all students.
– States have an interest in ensuring schools are supportive environments for every student.
Joining Attorney General Bonta in this effort are attorneys general from New York, Hawai’i, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Jersey, Oregon, Vermont, Washington, and the District of Columbia.
A copy of the amicus brief is available for public viewing.
