Family Equality joins Equality Florida and NCLR on a Historic Settlement to Roll Back Key Discriminatory Provisions in “Don’t Say Gay” Law

TALLAHASSEE, FL - More than a dozen parents, students, and teachers throughout Florida, along with non-profit organizations Equality Florida and Family Equality, reached a historic settlement agreement with the Florida State Board of Education, Florida Department of Education, and school districts that resolves their facial challenge to Florida's "Don't Say Gay" law.

The settlement restores the ability of students, teachers, and others in Florida schools to speak and write freely about sexual orientation and gender identity in class participation and schoolwork. It also restores safeguards against bullying in the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity, and reinstates Gay-Straight Alliances (GSAs). Critically, the settlement also requires the State Board of Education to send today's agreement to every school district, and to make clear that the settlement reflects the considered position of the State of Florida on the scope and meaning of this law.

"Compassion has been restored to the classroom thanks to today's settlement," said Family Equality President and CEO, Jaymes Black. "This decision blocks prejudice from reaching schools and allows LGBTQ+ students, families, and teachers to bring their whole selves to class each day. For students to reach their potential, schools must be places where a child's life is welcome in discussions and is fully seen. Allowing students to talk about their families and themselves is critical. All families deserve to be respected and celebrated. This agreement is not just a triumph for LGBTQ+ families but for all families. It's a beacon of hope that heralds a future where every student can safely and confidently be themselves, embracing diversity and fostering a sense of belonging for all."

Read the full press release here.

About Family Equality

Family Equality advances legal and lived equality for LGBTQ+ families, and for those who wish to form them, through building community, changing hearts and minds, and driving policy change. Family Equality believes every LGBTQ+ person should have the right and opportunity to form and sustain a loving family, regardless of who they are or where they live. Learn more at familyequality.org.

# # #

Press Contact

Tonya Agnew,
Vice President, Communications and Marketing
(765) 490-4709 / [email protected]