Elliot Yoder came out as transgender to his teachers and family at the start of the 2015-16 school year in Dallas, OR. As a freshman at Dallas High School, some members of the community, including students, are creating a hostile educational environment for Elliot, testifying--at public meetings of both the city council and school board--against his full participation at school and use of public school facilities and implying that he might be assaulted if he were to use boys’ locker room.

Under U.S. and Oregon Law, school districts must provide a safe learning environment for all students. We are pleased that the Dallas School District is willing to meet the letter of the law and affirm Elliot's gender and full participation. Oregon law also requires the school district enforce its Anti-Bullying Policy by stopping the harassment and intimidation he is experiencing. This is essential to his safety and the safety of all students.

In 2009, Basic Rights Oregon led the passage of the Oregon Safe Schools Act to ensure all kids, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, ability or race, are provided a safe and affirming education in Oregon. This was passed because LGBTQ students are three times more likely than straight students to drop out of school, to find themselves homeless, and to attempt suicide. These numbers are even higher for transgender youth, LGBTQ youth of color and students in rural communities.