In a landmark victory for transgender rights in Missouri, a trans man identified as RMA has been awarded over $4 million in damages following a discrimination case against the Blue Springs School District. The case stemmed from the district's refusal to allow him to use the boys' bathroom. The Missouri Appeals Court ruled in favor of RMA, stating that the school district's reasoning for excluding him – citing his "female genitalia" – was insufficient as they did not actually verify the nature of his genitalia. Judge Anthony Gabbert emphasized that the district's policy of not inquiring about the genitalia of other male students constituted discrimination. RMA, who had legally changed his gender in 2014, testified that he was denied access to the boys' restrooms and facilities despite participating in boys' athletics and school teams. He was forced to use a separate unisex bathroom, leading him to opt out of fall sports for the 2014-2015 school year. Initially awarded the sum in 2021, the district appealed the decision, arguing that RMA only proved discrimination based on his genitalia, not sex discrimination. However, Tuesday's verdict upheld the initial jury decision, marking a significant win for transgender rights in Missouri. #Students & Youth Culture