Tech Giants Unite in Support of Transgender Student Gavin Grimm
As the US Supreme Court prepares to hear a landmark case on transgender rights, a growing list of tech companies has signed an amicus brief in support of 17-year-old plaintiff Gavin Grimm. The brief, authored by law firm BakerHostetler, argues that the Gloucester County School Board’s denial of access to the boy’s restroom at his school violates Title IX.
A Growing List of Supporters
To date, a total of 54 US companies have signed on to the amicus brief in support of Gavin Grimm. The list includes some of the most well-known names in tech, such as Apple, Amazon, and Google’s competitors, but also extends beyond the industry to include clothing retailer The Gap, eyewear designer Warby Parker, and homewares store Williams-Sonoma.
Apple Takes Initiative
Apple has been at the forefront of mobilizing the technology community around the upcoming Supreme Court case. Working with the Human Rights Campaign (HRC), Apple reached out to potential signatories and secured their commitments to signing on. The company’s efforts have helped to bring attention to the importance of transgender rights and the need for companies to stand in support of their employees and customers.
A Message of Solidarity
The amicus brief is not just a statement of solidarity with Gavin Grimm, but also a powerful message to transgender children and their families that America’s leading businesses have their backs. HRC President Chad Griffin stated, "These companies are sending a powerful message to transgender children and their families that America’s leading businesses have their backs… Transgender students like Gavin are entitled to the full protection of the law, and must be affirmed, respected and protected in the classroom and beyond."
Notable Absences
Despite the growing list of supporters, two notable companies remain absent from the brief: Google and Facebook. Both companies spoke out on transgender student protections last week and also signed onto opposition for so-called state-level ‘bathroom bills,’ including North Carolina’s HB2 and SB6 in Texas.
Arguments to Begin on March 28
The Supreme Court will hear arguments in G.G. v. Gloucester County School Board on March 28. The case is expected to set a precedent for transgender rights nationwide, and the amicus brief from tech companies is just one of many statements of support for Gavin Grimm and his family.
A Growing Movement
As the technology industry continues to grow and become more influential in society, it’s heartening to see companies taking a stand on issues that affect their employees and customers. The amicus brief signed by 54 US companies is a testament
