By: Paul Goldberg, Political Correspondent | JRL CHARTS LGBT Politics USA
CORTEZ, CO — (July 20, 2025) — In a move sparking outrage and concern across Colorado’s LGBTQ+ community, the Montezuma-Cortez RE-1 School District has voted to eliminate sexual orientation and gender identity from its official nondiscrimination policy. The board approved the change earlier this summer without notifying the public in advance, according to local reports.
Related Coverage Links on JRL CHARTS:
The district’s updated language no longer includes protections for LGBTQ students and staff—raising alarm bells among civil rights advocates and education watchdogs. “This kind of rollback is dangerous and regressive,” said one local parent. “It signals that LGBTQ kids don’t deserve the same protections as their peers.”
The board’s decision comes amid a broader wave of conservative efforts nationwide to reshape public school policies around gender, sexuality, and curriculum oversight.
While the district did not publicly explain the rationale for the change, legal experts warn it may invite lawsuits and send a chilling message to LGBTQ youth already at greater risk for bullying and mental health challenges.
Colorado education officials have not intervened—yet.
As of this writing, the Montezuma-Cortez board has not released a public statement addressing the controversy. LGBTQ advocates are calling on state leaders to step in and restore inclusive protections before the school year begins.
Stay tuned to JRL CHARTS LGBT Politics for developing coverage on this controversial rollback and the growing national battle over LGBTQ rights in public education.
Media Partners: For licensing inquiries, media usage rights, or republication requests, please visit our Contact Us page. All content © JRL CHARTS Media Network. Unauthorized use is strictly prohibited.
