Statement on Decision to Dismiss ‘Doe v. South Carolina’
In November 2024, Public Justice and its co-counsel filed a class action lawsuit on
behalf of a transgender teen, “John Doe,” his family, and AFFA to protect transgender students in South Carolina whose civil rights are being violated.
The lawsuit challenged a South Carolina budget proviso that openly flouts federal law by requiring all K-12 public schools in the state to exclude transgender students from using bathrooms that correspond to their gender identities — or risk losing a quarter of their state funding.
This led to John Doe’s suspension for using the boys’ bathroom at his middle school.
As time progressed, John faced continued anti-transgender discrimination, including harassment from school staff and students, and felt he had no choice but to withdraw from school.
While challenging the state’s bathroom ban, John continued to face transphobic harassment and SC passed more discriminatory laws.
This summer, John and his family decided to relocate to another state so he can attend school in a safe, inclusive learning environment. As a result, they have decided to dismiss their lawsuit.
AFFA and AFFA Action's Executive Director, Ashley Peele, shared:
“It’s heartbreaking that the state we call home has become so hostile that John Doe and his family had to relocate to ensure John gets the safe education he deserves. AFFA will continue to fight for South Carolina’s LGBTQ+ community and will work with our partners to ensure that transgender students have the same protections and rights as every other student in our state.”
If you would like to read more, please find AFFA's joint statement with Public Justice here.
If you’ve experienced discrimination, been impacted by a harmful law, or witnessed something that needs attention, we want to hear from you.
Our team carefully reviews every submission. If your story aligns with ongoing advocacy, communications, or legal efforts, we may reach out to learn more. Because of the volume of submissions, we may not be able to respond to everyone—but your story still matters and helps guide our work.
We will never share or use your story without your explicit permission. If you are interested in speaking publicly or with the media, we can provide guidance and support. You are also welcome to remain anonymous.
In solidarity,
The AFFA and The AFFA Action teams
