March 8, 2021 (New York, NY) — Athlete Ally responded to news that, on International Women’s Day, President Biden signed an Executive Order stating that “all students should be guaranteed an educational environment free from discrimination on the basis of sex,” with discrimination including sexual harassment and violence, as well as discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity. With the order, Department of Education Secretary Miguel Cardona is given 100 days to review the Education Department’s regulations and policies to ensure compliance with the non-discrimination policy.
“Every LGBTQI+ student deserves to safely be their full self in the classroom, the playing field, and in every area of life,” said Joanna Hoffman, Athlete Ally’s Director of Communications. “After four years of an administration that targeted LGBTQI+ youth with discriminatory policies and practices, we especially welcome the Biden Administration’s steps towards ensuring that LGBTQI+ students are protected from discrimination under federal law. This Executive Order offers direly needed protections for LGBTQI+ students, survivors of sexual assault and harassment, and especially those who are both.”