On a humid July evening in Topsham, two opposing groups gathered outside Mt. Ararat Middle School. Inside, about 120 attended “Justice and Jazz,” an event hosted by Rep. Laurel Libby that focused on free speech and fairness in girls’ sports. Outside, 150 protesters waved Pride flags in support of transgender youth, underscoring a deep cultural divide.

Libby, a Republican from Auburn, has drawn criticism for doxing a trans student-athlete, a move that led to her censure by the Maine House, later overturned by the U.S. Supreme Court. Her supporters defend her as a free speech advocate; opponents call her actions harmful.

Presented by the Cumberland County GOP, the event featured conservative speakers arguing that biological sex should determine athletic participation. “No one can truly silence you,” Libby told attendees. Protesters, however, saw the event as exclusionary. “I think it’s really important to support trans kids throughout the state and throughout the country,” said local resident April Genung Wooden.

Critics also questioned the venue. Though school policy permits community rentals, many felt hosting the event on public school grounds sent a damaging message to transgender students.

The controversy highlights a broader national debate. Supporters say Libby defends free speech and fairness; critics say she targets LGBTQ+ youth. In schools, where safety and inclusion are paramount, such tensions are especially charged.

“Justice and Jazz” revealed the difficulty of balancing constitutional rights with a duty of care. As political discourse enters school spaces, leaders must ask: who is heard, and who is harmed?

Rachel Wildes
Bowdoinham