School faces DOJ referral after allegedly making girls change with trans student
The Illinois school district that made headlines for allegedly forcing middle school girls to change in the same locker room as a transgender student has now been referred to the Department of Justice. America First Legal (AFL) filed a criminal referral against Deerfield Public Schools District 109, urging the DOJ to investigate potential violations of federal and state law.
AFL cited Code § 241, also known as the “Conspiracy against rights” statute, which makes it a federal crime to conspire to injure, oppress, threaten, or intimidate any person in the free exercise of rights secured by the Constitution or laws. The complaint called for a directed criminal investigation into the allegations.
Ian Prior, a senior counselor at AFL, emphasized the need for a criminal investigation, stating that the situation at Deerfield Public Schools has escalated to a level that warrants the DOJ’s involvement. He stressed that students’ constitutional rights should not be sacrificed due to what he referred to as “radical transgender madness.”
The U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Civil Rights had previously announced an investigation into the Illinois Department of Education, Chicago Public School District 299, and Deerfield Public Schools District 109 for reported Title IX violations. The investigation was prompted by a civil rights complaint filed by Illinois mother Nicole Georgas, who alleged that her 13-year-old daughter was pressured to change in front of a transgender student in the girls’ locker room.
Georgas expressed her hopes for justice for her daughter and all girls affected by the situation. She brought attention to the incident during a Board of Education meeting, highlighting the violation of privacy and well-being that occurred. She also mentioned that the school administration claimed the transgender student had the right to use the girls’ facilities under a legal counsel’s directive.
In response to the allegations and investigation, Deerfield Public Schools District 109 stated that they comply with state law, which prohibits discrimination based on gender identity. The district emphasized its commitment to students’ privacy and provided facilities for private changing. They expressed willingness to work with families to address concerns and ensure students’ well-being.
As the investigation unfolds, the district and the Board remain dedicated to upholding the law and supporting the community. They urge all parties to engage in respectful dialogue and offer assistance to address individual concerns. The situation continues to draw attention and raise important discussions about privacy, rights, and inclusivity in educational settings.
