Rep. Schneider Leads Letter Urging Gov. Rauner to Continue Protections for Transgender Students

Today, Congressman Brad Schneider and nine other members of the Illinois congressional delegation sent a letter to Governor Bruce Rauner urging him to continue protections for transgender students in Illinois.

Last week, the Trump Administration rescinded guidance issued under President Obama that detailed public schools' obligations to transgender students, including the right for students to use the bathroom consistent with their gender identity. This decision has been harshly condemned by the LGBT community and has sown doubt about the Trump Administration's willingness to enforce critical protections on equality.

Written in response, the congressional letter urges Governor Rauner to "swiftly clarify what this action by the president does and does not mean for Illinois schools and to remind school districts and schools of their obligations under both federal and state laws."

Students remain legally protected under Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, and the Trump Administration's decision "does not mandate—and should not result in—the adoption of discriminatory policies by schools in Illinois."

The letter notes Illinois's leadership role in promoting equality and protecting against discrimination, including on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity.

The letter closes with the hope that, despite the backward priorities of the Trump Administration on LGBT rights, "Illinois will continue down the path toward providing a safe and equitable learning environment for every student."

The full letter was signed by Representatives Brad Schneider (IL-10), Bobby Rush (IL-1), Robin Kelley (IL-2), Luis Gutiérrez (IL-4), Mike Quigley (IL-5), Danny Davis (IL-7), Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-8), Jan Schakowsky (IL-9), Bill Foster (IL-11), and Cheri Bustos (IL-17).