The ACLU is asking a federal judge to dismiss a lawsuit. The lawsuit says a school district’s policy that’s supposed to protect LGBTQ students from harassment violates religious freedom and free speech rights.
The lawsuit was filed by parents in the Williamston Community School District. They say their children are entitled to a free public education that does not challenge their Christian faith. They say the school policy that’s supposed to protect LGBTQ students from harassment and discrimination does not protect their kids from the same thing.
ACLU attorney Jay Kaplan said the rights of LGBTQ students – or students who are perceived to be LGBTQ – will be harmed if the policy is reversed.
“Then you take away the ability of governments, including public school districts, their ability to redress and prevent incidents of discrimination and harassment of students," said Kaplan.
Kaplan says it is possible to protect free speech and religious freedom rights without subjecting LGBTQ students to fear and harassment in school.