GLSEN Response to Republican Presidential Candidate Senator Ted Cruz's Comments about Transgender Students  

NEW YORK (November 20, 2015) – GLSEN's Executive Director, Dr. Eliza Byard, issued a statement in response to comments made by Republican Presidential candidate Senator Ted Cruz on conservative radio show, Louder with Crowder, about transgender students.

"What's the difference between a good school district and Senator Ted Cruz? Good school districts quietly go about doing the right thing by all of their students. Sen. Cruz makes loud, thoughtless pronouncements to shill for votes at the expense of young people's wellbeing. Numerous school districts around the country have policies in place, some of which have existed for decades, that protect and affirm transgender students. These policies were established by local leaders who understand what it takes to create safe and welcoming schools – something Sen. Cruz clearly knows nothing about. For him to make these statements on the eve of Transgender Day of Remembrance, when we mourn the loss of far too many to transphobic hate, is particularly shameful."

About GLSEN

GLSEN is the leading national education organization focused on ensuring safe and affirming schools for all students. Celebrating its 25th year, GLSEN envisions a world in which every child learns to respect and accept all people, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity/expression. GLSEN seeks to develop school climates where difference is valued for the positive contribution it makes to creating a more vibrant and diverse community. For information on GLSEN's research, educational resources, public policy advocacy, student organizing programs and educator training initiatives, visit www.glsen.org.