Illinois State Representative Bob Morgan, a Democrat, has dismissed claims made by a mother in his district that her daughter was compelled to change clothes in front of a transgender student, labeling the allegations as false. During a session of the Illinois General Assembly, Morgan addressed the situation after it was highlighted by Nicole Georgas, a Deerfield resident, who had filed a federal civil rights complaint following a school board meeting.
Morgan, representing Deerfield, responded to the issue when it was raised by Republican State Representative Adam Neimerg, who referenced Georgas's allegations. Morgan criticized Neimerg for bringing up the matter and praised the community and schools for their handling of the situation, asserting that the claims were untrue.
"I'm proud of my community for standing up for those who need protection and ensuring we have excellent schools," Morgan stated. "This is a lie!"
In response, Georgas took to social media to express her outrage, questioning Morgan's accusations and defending her daughter's account of the incident. She claimed her daughter was forced to change in front of a transgender student, which she believes violated her daughter's rights and privacy.
Georgas filed her complaint with the Justice Department, alleging that school officials had pressured her 13-year-old daughter to change in front of a transgender student in the girls' locker room. She brought this issue to light during a Deerfield Public School District 109 Board of Education meeting, arguing that her daughter's privacy and mental well-being were compromised.
According to Georgas, her daughter was distressed when she encountered a transgender student in the girls' bathroom on February 5. School administrators reportedly informed her daughter that the student was permitted to use the facilities based on their gender identity.
The situation escalated when Georgas's daughter and other students refused to change for physical education class due to the transgender student's presence. Georgas claimed that school officials, including the Assistant Superintendent and Assistant Principal, insisted the girls change into their uniforms, a practice that continued throughout the week.
Georgas raised the issue with the school administration, citing a perceived violation of an executive order from the Trump administration. The administration, however, maintained that their policies, which allow students to use facilities corresponding to their gender identity, comply with legal guidance.
Deerfield Public Schools District 109 issued a statement affirming that no student is required to change in front of others and that their policies are consistent with state laws and educational guidelines. The district emphasized its commitment to a respectful and supportive learning environment for all students and staff.