California Attorney General Rob Bonta, alongside 17 other attorneys general, has filed an amicus brief in the case of Rinderle v. Cobb County School District. The brief opposes policies enacted by a Georgia school district that prohibit school staff from discussing topics deemed "divisive," which critics argue undermines the ability to teach diverse books and curricula. These policies have led to the dismissal of a teacher for addressing age-appropriate LGBTQ+ issues and have generally censored related discussions.
"It’s appalling to witness those charged with ensuring the well-being of our students attempt to silence and erase marginalized groups from classroom discussions," said Attorney General Bonta. "Today’s coalition urges the court to stand by plaintiffs in their efforts to uphold an inclusive and diverse learning experience for all. At the California Department of Justice, we will continue to stand against school officials who blatantly seek to undermine the rights of students, teachers, and their families."
The plaintiffs in Rinderle v. Cobb County School are seeking injunctive, declaratory, and compensatory relief against these policies. They argue that the laws are unconstitutionally vague, discriminate based on sex under the Fourteenth Amendment, and violate the right to receive information under both the First and Fourteenth Amendments. In contrast, California has implemented protections aimed at fostering LGBTQ+ inclusivity in schools through measures such as the Fair Education Act, the California Healthy Youth Act, and the School Success and Opportunity Act.
The coalition's amicus brief contends that the challenged policies lack legitimate educational purpose and will stigmatize LGBTQ students while increasing anti-LGBTQ bias. It also highlights how amici States' policies enable educators to appropriately address LGBTQ-related topics without censorship.
Attorney General Bonta is joined in this filing by his counterparts from the District of Columbia, New Jersey, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New York, Oregon, and Vermont.
A copy of the amicus brief is available here.