News & Commentary

Last week, in response to a lawsuit filed by the ACLU of Louisiana, the Lafayette Public Library agreed to lift its unconstitutional ban on patrons organizing events called Drag Queen Story Time.

Earlier this week, transgender student Kami Pham and her classmates used the power of grassroots activism to prevent an egregious violation of her rights.

The American Civil Liberties Union of Louisiana today reiterated its support for Gov. John Bel Edwards’ executive order protecting LGBT Louisianans from discrimination in seeking state employment or services, and condemned Attorney General Jeff Landry for continuing to challenge it in court. The First Circuit Court of Appeals will hear arguments in the case tomorrow (August 15).

Today we sent our annual open letter to the superintendents of all Louisiana public schools, reminding them that they may not legally discriminate against gay, lesbian, transgender, or genderqueer students’ participation in school activities, including school dances.

The ACLU of Louisiana applauds Governor Edwards for issuing the Equal Opportunity and Non-Discrimination Order today (Executive Order JBE 2016-11), protecting the rights of LGBT Louisianians from discrimination while seeking state employment or services. This order is the first time Louisiana has explicitly recognized the equal rights of transgender people, and is a strong stand against bigotry.