Story perspectives

Civil Rights Office Launches Investigation Into Ethan’s Complaint

8/27/2026

Summary

Story summary

U.S. Office for Civil Rights began investigating Josette Smith’s discrimination complaint about her son Ethan.
Ethan was removed, suspended, and charged with battery in third grade after police were called.
President Donald Trump signed an order in early August cutting child immunizations and falsely linking vaccines to autism.
Disability advocates warn that moving special-education oversight to HHS and the Justice Department weakens protections for autistic students.

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Story summary

U.S. Office for Civil Rights began investigating Josette Smith’s discrimination complaint about her son Ethan.
Ethan was removed, suspended, and charged with battery in third grade after police were called.
President Donald Trump signed an order in early August cutting child immunizations and falsely linking vaccines to autism.
Disability advocates warn that moving special-education oversight to HHS and the Justice Department weakens protections for autistic students.