Press Release  AG Healey Stands with Transgender Families, Advocates and State Leaders in Speaking Out Against the Trump Administration’s Decision to Reverse Position on Transgender Students

BOSTON —  Attorney General Maura Healey today joined transgender families, LGBTQ advocacy groups, and state legislators to speak out against the Trump Administration’s decision to reverse the federal government’s position on protections for transgender students in our schools.

The AG also highlighted the laws in Massachusetts that protect transgender students from discrimination, including the public accommodations bill signed into law in July 2016 and the guidance from the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) on creating a safe and supportive school environment for all.

“In Massachusetts, we have strong laws that protect transgender students from discrimination and harassment, and these laws have not changed,” said AG Healey. “However, the Trump Administration’s action sends a message that discrimination against vulnerable students is acceptable. My message to families in Massachusetts and across this country is simple: if the Trump Administration won’t protect people’s rights, we will.” 

“The repeal of the previous administration's Title IX guidelines is unwarranted and cruel.  It places transgender children in danger because of the discomfort that adults feel about these children's most deeply held identities,” said Mimi Lemay, an advocate and parent of a transgender child. “I am proud to join Attorney General Healey in speaking up for equal access to education for all students, regardless of gender identity.”

The AG was also joined at today’s press conference by Senate President Stan Rosenberg, House Speaker Robert DeLeo, State Senator William Brownsberger, State Representative Denise Provost, LGBTQ advocates and transgender youth and families.

AG Healey is committed to protecting transgender people, and worked closely with advocates to garner support for the transgender public accommodations bill. In October 2015, AG Healey testified in support of the legislation and submitted a letter advocating for its passage. In March 2016, the AG’s Office launched the #EveryoneWelcome social media campaign, featuring short video messages from celebrity allies of the transgender community and families from across the state. Dozens of Massachusetts businesses also joined the AG’s Office in a letter urging the Legislature to take a favorable vote on legislation.

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