On January 29, President Trump issued an executive order aimed at eliminating protections for transgender students and restricting instruction related to race, gender, and other subjects in K-12 education. Schools that do not comply with the order may lose federal funding.
A new report from the Williams Institute at UCLA School of Law analyzes the order and examines its potential impact on transgender youth. There are an estimated 300,000 transgender youth aged 13 to 17 in the United States.
The order specifically targets transgender youth by prohibiting the recognition of gender identity and preferred pronouns, restricting access to shared facilities such as restrooms and locker rooms, banning participation in school sports, requiring forced outing, and prohibiting instruction on topics related to gender identity.
Studies find that negative social and policy environments, which stigmatize LGBTQ individuals and instill fear of discrimination and harassment, are associated with poor mental and physical health outcomes. In addition, policies that require schools to out transgender students to their parents will likely increase rates of family rejection.
“This executive order conflicts with existing federal laws and constitutional provisions that protect the rights of transgender youth,” said study author Christy Mallory, Interim Executive Director and Legal Director at the Williams Institute. “However, regardless of its legality, the order will likely impact transgender students by increasing the instances of discrimination and harassment they face, ultimately affecting their health outcomes.”
Although the executive order does not directly address transgender teachers and staff, it is likely that they may also be affected by policy changes at the school level, for instance, the use of shared facilities based on gender identity. Additionally, teachers and school staff who support transgender students may face potential legal actions by the Attorney General.