(Above photo by National_Progress_Party, from Wikimedia Commons)
WILMINGTON, Del. (AP) | A Delaware school board approved a policy affirming transgender students’ rights Dec. 15.
The Red Clay School District’s school board voted 4-3 to approve the policy that reaffirms transgender students’ rights to use preferred bathrooms, locker rooms, names and pronouns in school, The News Journal reported. The policy also affirms students’ rights to participate in corresponding athletic and health programs.
Nearly 70 people spoke as public comment stretched to more than three hours amid booing, cheers and shouting. Security removed one person and state troopers were called in before the meeting adjourned.
Supporters emphasized that students in the district are already using the privileges affirmed by the policy, many of which are protected by state and federal laws.
Opponents expressed concerns about safety, “unfairness” in athletics and potential “confusion” it may cause children.
The policy allows students to express their gender identity at school without staff telling their parents. An earlier draft required disclosure but advocates said it could pose a risk to students without supportive parents. The three board members who voted against the motion cited this in their reasoning.
