Trump administration investigates Smith College for admitting transgender women
Civil rights inquiry claims policy may breach Title IX as administration escalates attacks on trans rights
TL;DR
- The US Education Department is investigating Smith College for its policy on admitting transgender women.
- The investigation claims the college may be violating Title IX by allowing biological males into women's spaces.
- The department argues that admitting transgender students means the college is no longer single-sex.
- This action is seen as an escalation of the Trump administration's attacks on trans rights.
- A rightwing education group, Defending Education, filed a complaint leading to the investigation.
- Smith College's policy allows applicants who self-identify as women, including trans women.
- The Trump administration has pursued various policies impacting transgender individuals, including sports participation and military service.
- Smith College affirmed its policy on admitting transgender women in 2015 after study and consultation.
- Smith College stated it is committed to its values and compliance with civil rights laws but declined to comment on the pending investigation.
- The college also stated it would follow the NCAA's new policy prohibiting transgender women from playing in women's sports.