‘Watershed moment’: Judge allows class action suit over school’s gender policies

U.S. District Judge Roger Benitez ruled on October 15th to allow a class action lawsuit, *Mirabelli v. Olson*, to proceed, potentially representing millions of California parents and teachers. The lawsuit challenges school district policies that keep parents uninformed about their children’s “gender transitions.” The Thomas More Society, representing the plaintiffs, hailed the decision as potentially “one of the largest civil rights class actions” in California history, arguing that parents have a “fundamental right” to direct their children’s education and moral upbringing. Judge Benitez determined that the case is suitable for class action status because the school districts are state agents implementing statewide policies.

A hearing is scheduled for November 17th, which could result in a final ruling on whether these secretive transgender policies violate parents’ constitutional rights. The lawsuit now represents all California parents and teachers affected by such policies. The debate centers on whether school officials should be allowed to facilitate gender transitions or exclude parents from knowing if their children begin “identifying” as the opposite sex. Advocates for these policies argue for the discretion of teachers and administrators, while critics, including the Trump administration and Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin, emphasize parental rights and oversight. The case highlights the ongoing national debate surrounding transgenderism, gender ideology, and the role of schools in addressing these issues.

(Source：Catholic News Agency)