STATEMENT FROM PFLAG NORMAN PRESIDENT, MICHAEL ROBERTSON

PFLAG Norman and the Norman Police Department were proud to partner and host their first NPD Community Pridefest on June 2nd. The event was suggested by the Norman Pride Board and Chief Foster with the purpose of building trust and relationships between the LGBTQ+ community and their police. Approximately $500 was raised and went towards PFLAG’s continued advocacy, education, and support.

Prior to the event, concerns were expressed about the anti-trans school bathroom law that was recently passed in our state. In summary, the law requires students at both public and charter schools to use restrooms and locker rooms that match the sex listed on their birth certificates. This is one of many anti-trans legislations seen this year, and the concern was whether Norman Police officers would be enforcing this bathroom law.

As the LGBTQ+ Police Liaison, I can tell you that there is no criminal enforcement component to this law. Meaning, no school resource officer (SRO) can enforce it. Rather, it is considered a civil and an administrative matter. Furthermore, the law requires schools to reasonably accommodate those who do not wish to comply with the requirement. This is something that Norman Public Schools is already doing. Nevertheless, PFLAG will continue to work with the schools on how to carefully address this. PFLAG is also scheduled to provide training to Norman’s SROs before the schoolyear begins.

Legislation like this can create fear. Fortunately, these bills are gaining needed attention and there are many great individuals at the schools and the police department that are developing solutions to help alleviate that fear. After all, children should not be singled out for who they are, nor should they have to worry about using a bathroom.

The law (SB 615) can be seen HERE.