This petition is to STOP the new Virginia governor Glenn Youngkin from repealing a state law requiring local school boards to follow the state’s lead on transgender-rights policies.

I’m sharing my personal journey, as well as my transgender 16 yr old daughters (with permission of course) to help others understand how critical it is this law stays in effect. 

First and foremost: I carried a baby in my belly for months never once caring what gender it would be, just knew I would love him or her with every fiber of my being. Now that my daughter has come out as transgender, I still don’t care. In fact, consider it a blessing because I get the best of both genders.

Now on to our experience with current state law: 

Last year she moved from her dad’s house to mine permanently. The school principle we met with helped arrange a place where Marion can dress for gym and provided a gender neutral bathroom. They noted her pronouns and that she wanted to go by her middle name and emailed that info to all of her teachers. It was an easy, inclusive all around positive experience thanks to the law currently in effect.

Marion slowly started smiling more often, her grades are now perfect, and she’s absolutely thriving. Every transgender kid should have this experience so they can grow into their best selves…. without bullying, hate, and discrimination.

Marion’s story is a positive one, and should be possible for every trans child in Virginia. 

Please sign if you agree!

Without your support basic transgender rights will be rolled back. Hate and division will win again, let’s make the world a brighter place for everyone! 

The current law is listed below for reference: 

§ 22.1-23.3. Treatment of transgender students; policies.

A. The Department of Education shall develop and make available to each school board model policies concerning the treatment of transgender students in public elementary and secondary schools that address common issues regarding transgender students in accordance with evidence-based best practices and include information, guidance, procedures, and standards relating to:

1. Compliance with applicable nondiscrimination laws;

2. Maintenance of a safe and supportive learning environment free from discrimination and harassment for all students;

3. Prevention of and response to bullying and harassment;

4. Maintenance of student records;

5. Identification of students;

6. Protection of student privacy and the confidentiality of sensitive information;

7. Enforcement of sex-based dress codes; and

8. Student participation in sex-specific school activities and events and use of school facilities. Activities and events do not include athletics.

B. Each school board shall adopt policies that are consistent with but may be more comprehensive than the model policies developed by the Department of Education pursuant to subsection A.

2020, cc. 153, 154.