Friend –

We are excited to share two major updates in legal cases we have filed and have been working on with partners.

Earlier this year, we filed a lawsuit against the Mat-Su Borough School District (MSBSD) for its unconstitutional policy that bans transgender students from using the bathroom that matches their gender identity. Last week, we filed a motion for a preliminary injunction so that our plaintiff and other students can use the bathroom that matches their gender identity while the merits of the case are being reviewed by the courts. School started just a few weeks ago, and we know that under this policy, transgender students rights to privacy and equal protection under the law are being violated by the MSBSD. This lawsuit is ongoing, and we will continue to share any updates regarding the case of this policy. Read our press release on our website.

Also, last year, we filed a lawsuit with Planned Parenthood challenging a law that prevents certain Advanced Practice Clinicians (APCs - such as physician assistants, nurse practitioners, and certified nurse midwives) from providing both medication and aspiration abortions. Last week, an Alaska Superior Court struck down the law and expanded access to abortion by ruling the law is unconstitutional. This is a huge win for abortion access, especially in rural Alaska. Read our press release on our website.

We want to say a massive 'thank you' to everyone who has stuck with us (and continues to stick with us) as we defend civil rights for all Alaskans. As our legal team says, the wheels of justice turn slowly, and we are committed to the long work of ensuring that our constitution protects every Alaskan.

We look forward to continuing to update you on our ongoing legal work.

Sincerely,

ACLU of Alaska