Today the Department of Education issued widely anticipated proposed regulations clarifying that Title IX’s prohibition against sex discrimination in education protect against sexual orientation and gender identity discrimination. The announcement of the new proposed rule comes as the country celebrates the 50th anniversary of Title IX of the Education of Amendments of 1972, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in any school or education program that receives funding from the federal government.

“We celebrate and welcome the proposed regulatory updates issued today by the Department of Education making clear that Title IX protections extend to LGBTQ students,” said Jennifer Levi, Transgender Rights Project Director at GLBTQ Legal Advocates & Defenders (GLAD). “These regulations provide vital clarity and reinforce important protections that LGBTQ young people need to thrive. Transgender young people are especially vulnerable to bullying, harassment and violence in school settings because of escalating state legislative attacks. The proposed rules issued today by the Department of Education send an important message to LGBTQ students and their families that federal law protects them. As we celebrate the 50th anniversary of Title IX’s passage, these welcome revisions fortify the promise that federally-funded educational institutions will ensure equal educational opportunities for all students.”

“These proposed regulations demonstrate a strong commitment to protecting educational opportunities for all students including LGBTQ students,” added GLAD Executive Director Janson Wu. “Especially in light of ongoing state legislative attacks, we are grateful for the Administration’s strong support of LGBTQ youth.”