AAUW Calls on Communities to Reject Fear, Defend Inclusive Education

WASHINGTON, D.C. —  The American Association of University Women (AAUW) is deeply disappointed in today’s Supreme Court decision in Mahmoud v. Taylor, which risks having a chilling effect on LGBTQ+ inclusion in classrooms and school libraries. While the ruling stops short of banning inclusive curricula, it opens the door to further censorship and undermines efforts to create learning environments that reflect and respect the full diversity of our communities. 

While the decision doesn’t prohibit schools from including LGBTQ+ people, stories, or families, it creates space for confusion and fear. AAUW calls on local leaders, educators, and families to reject misinformation and fear-based narratives and to ensure that every child is welcomed, supported, and represented in the classroom. 

AAUW’s public policy priorities affirm that all students deserve access to curriculum free from censorship or bias, and we oppose discrimination in any form, including based on gender identity and sexual orientation. Our own research, along with data from organizations such as The Trevor Project, shows that LGBTQ+ youth face significantly higher rates of bullying, isolation, and mental health challenges especially when their identities are erased or stigmatized at school. 

Every student deserves to feel safe, seen, and supported. AAUW remains committed to defending inclusive education and standing with the students, families, and educators working to ensure that classrooms are places of belonging and opportunity for all. 

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AAUW (American Association of University Women) is the nation’s leading organization for equity in higher education and women’s economic empowerment.   

Founded in 1881 by women who defied society’s conventions by earning college degrees, AAUW has since worked to increase women’s access, opportunity, and equity in higher education through research, advocacy, and philanthropy of over $140 million, supporting thousands of women scholars. Learn more at aauw.org and follow us at @AAUW.