California schools’ gender policy under legal scrutiny for religious freedom violations

A federal judge has certified a class-action lawsuit challenging a California school district’s policy of concealing a student’s gender identity from their parents or guardians. U.S. District Judge Roger Benitez allowed the case to proceed on behalf of potentially millions of parents and teachers. The lawsuit, brought by the Thomas More Society representing teachers Elizabeth Mirabelli and Lori West, argues that the policy violates the First and Fourteenth Amendments, specifically freedom of speech, religious expression, and parental rights. The school district and the California Department of Education claim the policy is intended to protect students from abuse, characterizing it as merely a “suggestion.”

California Governor Gavin Newsom previously signed a bill prohibiting schools from informing parents about a student’s sexual orientation or gender identity, prompting an investigation by the U.S. Department of Education under President Trump. Linda McMahon, then-Secretary of Education, stated that decisions regarding a child’s sexual identity and mental health are the responsibility of parents.

The judge will determine whether the policies infringe upon constitutional rights, with the plaintiffs seeking “clarity and accountability” regarding the district’s practices. The case is seen as a significant moment for parental rights and religious freedom in education.

(Source：Deseret News)