Federal Guidance on Confronting Anti-LGBTQI+ Harassment in Schools
In celebration of the 49th anniversary of Title IX, United States Department of Education Office of Civil Rights (OCR) has issued a Dear Educator Letter and, in conjunction with the U.S. Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division, a fact sheet: Confronting Anti-LGBTQI+ Harassment in Schools. Please also see this message from Secretary Cardona on Title IX’s anniversary.
The Dear Educator Letter highlights the importance and broad scope of Title IX and resources available to help ensure schools are free from sex discrimination, including our recent notice clarifying that Title IX prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. The fact sheet includes examples of harassment and discrimination based on gender identity and sexual orientation and information about steps students and families can take if they believe that students have been treated unfairly or experienced discrimination. As we celebrate Title IX’s anniversary and Pride Month, today’s letter and fact sheet continue OCR’s efforts to promote safe and inclusive schools for LGBTQI+ students.