Allegations of discrimination against trans teacher brought to Parliament: Minister Tekin states investigation is ongoing

Allegations of discrimination regarding the non-renewal of the contract of trans teacher Zoe Lila, who worked at the Private Açı Middle School in Sarıyer, Istanbul, have been brought to the parliamentary agenda. Minister of National Education Yusuf Tekin, in his response to a parliamentary question by DEM Party MP Özgül Saki, stated that the investigation into the matter is ongoing.

Lila had stated that she lost her job in July after being targeted by media outlets close to the government; she said that the school administration decided not to renew her contract following meetings with ministries. Stating that she left the school without being able to say goodbye to her students, Lila described what she experienced as "systematic violence."

Özgül Saki, who submitted the parliamentary question on the matter, asked the Ministry of National Education which specific legislative violation was identified, and whether the allegation was based on course content, school activity, guidance activities, work permits, or any other administrative action. Saki also requested an explanation as to whether a person being trans or having undergone a gender transition process is considered an obstacle to practicing the teaching profession.

MINISTRY EMPHASIZES LEGISLATION

In his response, Minister Tekin stated that evaluations regarding the teaching profession are made not based on elements related to individuals' private lives, but within the framework of qualifications required by legislation, work permits, assignment conditions, pedagogical principles, the best interests of children, student safety, and the compliance of educational activities with legislation.

''Legally established identity or registration changes are not considered an obstacle to practicing the teaching profession on their own, and the conditions stipulated in the current legislation are taken as the basis in assignment and work permit processes.''

Tekin noted that it is essential for students to be in safe, healthy, and supportive educational environments in schools, and that relevant administrative processes are initiated in concrete situations that "negatively affect the school climate" or are determined to constitute a violation of legislation. However, the response did not share details regarding what specific violation allegation exists concerning Lila.

The ministry's response also stated that the prevention of discrimination in educational institutions, the strengthening of a safe school climate, and the protection of students' personal rights and psychological safety are among the fundamental policy areas. There is no new decision regarding the outcome of the investigation that has been announced to the public yet.