Equal Protection for K-12 Students

Across the country, laws and policies related to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) are being undone. Since 2023, many states have introduced legislation affecting how schools and other institutions approach anti-discrimination efforts. At the same time, long-standing federal and state civil rights laws remain in effect.

Nevada has maintained anti-discrimination laws for decades. In 1961, the state established the Nevada Equal Rights Commission, declaring it a public policy to protect residents from discrimination in areas such as employment, housing, and public accommodations. In 2022, Nevada voters approved the Equal Rights Amendment to the state constitution. The amendment states that equality of rights under the law cannot be denied on the basis of race, color, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, ancestry, or national origin. When young people feel they belong and have access to diverse spaces, they can fully engage academically, increase understanding and respect across differences, and succeed in society.

This information is not legal advice, but intended to be a resource for students to understand and assert their rights.