John,

In a country where Muslims and LGBTQI+ students alike are being targeted simply for being who they are, it is more important than ever that our taxpayer-funded public schools are learning environments that are safe and respectful of all students no matter who they are or what they believe. But right now, a few Maryland parents, with the backing of the federal government under Trump, are asking the Supreme Court to give them the power to shield their children from any acknowledgment of LGBTQI+ existence in public school.  

That’s why A4TE filed a friend-of-the-court brief with the U.S. Supreme Court in Mahmoud v Taylor on Wednesday on behalf of eight organizations including Queer Crescent, Al-Wāsi’ Collective, Atlanta Unity Mosque, Queer Muslims of Boston (QMOB), and other groups with LGBTQI+ Muslims among their members in support of Montgomery County Public Schools’ decision to include LGBTQI+-inclusive storybooks in elementary language arts classes. In it, we share a vision of real religious liberty—one that supports and includes trans and queer children and families. 

Friend-of-the-court briefs, also known as amici curiae briefs, are texts that are from people and/or organizations considered authorities in their field(s) submitted to the court as evidence. Our legal team works on these briefs, in addition to our work in litigation, direct services, and legal education, all year round. While we normally work on such briefs in concert with co-counsel, we can proudly say that this brief was handled entirely by our team and our partnering organizations. 

I have to say—this one was very special to me as a trans Muslim, and I'm honored that I had A4TE's support and the support of our amici to work on this brief. I’m also honored to receive your support in this and all our legal matters. Donations help us grow our legal team, meaning more briefs, more cases—more wins for our community. 

Thank you for fighting alongside us for freedom of education, religion, and expression — all constitutionally protected parts of life that all human beings, regardless of LGBQTI+ status, should enjoy.