18 AGs Back Student’s “Two Genders” Shirt, Sparking Free Speech Debate
Eighteen state attorneys general, primarily from Republican-led states, filed briefs supporting a Massachusetts middle school student, Liam Morrison, whose First Amendment rights were allegedly violated when he was suspended for wearing a “There are only two genders” shirt. Lower courts ruled against Morrison, finding the shirt demeaned transgender students, but the AGs contend this lacked evidence of substantial disruption. They argue the school’s evidence was insufficient, and supporting organizations warn of a chilling effect on free speech in schools. The case, backed by Alliance Defending Freedom and the Massachusetts Family Institute, awaits potential Supreme Court review.
John Q. Hosedrinker