ACLU of Louisiana Reminds State Educators of Equal Rights for Students
Prom is for all students regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity
NEW ORLEANS – Today the ACLU of Louisiana sent its annual open letter to the superintendents of all Louisiana public schools, reminding them that they may not legally discriminate against gay, lesbian, transgender, or genderqueer students’ participation in school activities, including school dances.
While the letter was sent only to traditional public school superintendents, the law applies to all publicly funded schools, including charters.
With prom season upon us, school superintendents and administrators should refresh their understanding of students’ rights under the law. Students must be allowed to bring dates of the same sex to school dances, and may wear attire considered typical of any gender. Unequal treatment of LGBTQ+ students in policy or practice is unconstitutional.
In the letter, Executive Director Marjorie R. Esman writes: “In light of the clear law protecting students’ rights to bring dates of their choosing—and ultimately to marry who they choose—and to wear attire typical of either gender, I trust that students in your district will have a safe and happy prom season free from unlawful discrimination.”
A complete copy of the letter may be found at: http://laaclu.org/resources/2017/2017_Prom_Letter.pdf
Stay Informed
Every month, you'll receive regular roundups of the most important civil rights and civil liberties developments. Remember: a well-informed citizenry is the best defense against tyranny.
By completing this form, I agree to receive occasional emails per the terms of the ACLU’s privacy policy.
ACLU's Vision
The American Civil Liberties Union is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to defend and preserve the individual rights and liberties guaranteed to every person in this country by the Constitution and laws of the United States of America.