Golden State Today

California Attorney General Rob Bonta has responded to President Trump's recent executive order, which targets transgender, nonbinary, intersex, and gender nonconforming students. In a statement issued from Sacramento, Bonta affirmed California's commitment to maintaining a welcoming and inclusive environment for all students.

"California will continue to create a welcoming environment for all students, including transgender and gender nonconforming students," said Bonta. He emphasized that while the federal government sets baseline civil rights protections, California law provides additional safeguards beyond those at the federal level. These state-level protections remain intact despite the President's actions.

Bonta highlighted that both the U.S. Constitution and California's Constitution guarantee equality in education and equal protection under the law. He criticized the executive order as an attempt to undermine these rights by threatening educators who aim to provide equal educational opportunities.

"Discrimination has no place in the classroom," Bonta stated. He asserted that decisions about school curriculum and instructional materials are determined at state and local levels, not by federal authority. According to Bonta, California law mandates inclusive curricula that reflect diverse populations' contributions across various identities.

Bonta expressed his commitment as Attorney General to support all California students' rights and commended educators working towards safe and inclusive environments. "The President continues to use his powers to attempt to strike fear in and target the most vulnerable groups in our society," he added.

For school officials seeking guidance on policies related to transgender and gender nonconforming students or inclusive curricula requirements, resources are available through several California Department of Justice web pages. Additionally, individuals who believe their rights are being violated can file complaints with either the California Attorney General’s Office or the California Civil Rights Department.