Today the ACLU of Louisiana sent a letter to the Superintendents of all Louisiana public school boards reminding them of the legal obligation to allow students to bring dates of the same sex to school dances. In addition, the ACLU points out that students may wear attire typical of either gender. "We want to be sure that all students in Louisiana are protected by their schools," said Marjorie R. Esman, ACLU of Louisiana Executive Director. "Prom is for everyone, and it's important for schools to be reminded that all students have the right to attend with the date of their choice."
The ACLU of Louisiana hopes to avoid a situation such as that in Itawamba County, Mississippi, where a school cancelled prom rather than allow a lesbian student to bring her girlfriend. "By reminding schools now of the legal rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender students, all Louisiana public high schools should be able to hold safe, enjoyable, and equal proms that all of their students can enjoy."