My name is Taylor, and I am agender. For years, I have faced a world where my identity is constantly questioned, overlooked, and even ridiculed. Imagine being in a space where you're meant to feel safe and supported, yet every trip to the bathroom or locker room is a source of anxiety and discomfort. This is the reality for many students in Spokane's and Cheney’s public schools, including myself.

Schools are intended to be places of learning, growth, and safety. However, for transgender and non-binary students, the absence of gender neutral bathrooms and locker rooms creates an additional hurdle that no student should have to face. Navigating the challenges of adolescence is difficult enough without the added pressure of finding a safe space to perform basic, everyday functions.

According to the GLSEN 2019 National School Climate Survey, more than 60% of LGBTQ students did not use the restroom in school because they felt unsafe or uncomfortable, and 45% of these students avoided locker rooms due to similar concerns. Every day, Spokane and Cheney kids are forced to choose between their comfort and their health, simply because the facilities do not reflect their identities. 

The need for gender neutral spaces is critical in combating transphobia and promoting inclusivity. By implementing gender neutral bathrooms and locker rooms in every public school, we can foster an environment where all students feel respected and valued. This change is not just about facilities; it's about recognizing and affirming the identities of all students, and creating a culture of acceptance and support.

We urge the Spokane and Cheney School Board to take immediate action and ensure that every student has access to facilities that meet their needs, regardless of their gender identity. Let's lead the way in providing every student an equitable education experience. Please sign this petition to support a more inclusive Spokane and Cheney, where every student feels safe, seen, and supported.