Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine has addressed the Community Education Council 2 (CEC2) regarding Resolution 280, which aims to affirm support for New York City Public Schools’ guidelines that protect transgender and gender expansive students. The resolution also seeks to rescind Resolution 248.
In his testimony, Levine emphasized the importance of Community Education Councils in policy-making and local engagement. He urged them to focus their efforts on ensuring that the school system meets the needs of every student. Levine stated, “Every person on this CEC and every family in this district can agree there is work to do, and that there are students in this district that need additional support, additional protection, and more resources.”
Levine criticized Resolution 248, passed by CEC2 in March 2024, describing it as disconnected from real educational challenges and containing transphobic language. He noted that it called for reconsideration of guidelines intended to prevent discrimination against students based on gender identity or expression.
Since its passage, parents, students, and community members have actively opposed Resolution 248 through testimonies at meetings. They have advocated for their transgender classmates and neighbors. The Department of Education Chancellor issued a statement rejecting the resolution. Elected officials including Levine have consistently called for its rescission.
Levine highlighted stories shared by transgender students and parents about receiving love and support from teachers, peers, and school staff. However, he also acknowledged the pain caused by Resolution 248’s message that transgender students are unwelcome.
As a new term begins for CEC2 members, Levine urged them to stand up for transgender students by rescinding Resolution 248. He called on them to “reject culture war ideology” and return to supporting schools.
###
