As a transgender individual, I have personally faced the challenges that existing policies in our schools create. The disconnect between my identity and the facilities I am told to use is exhausting and anxiety inducing and, put simply… a breach of my rights. We are seeking legislative change designed to preserve the rights of transgender students in our schools throughout the country. By doing this we can guarantee that students throughout the nation can be satisfied and content with where they go to the bathroom, every student should feel safe and protected in our schools, although 53% of transgender students across the country have expressed feelings of severe shame and anxiety when using the restroom in their schools (PEW). 

Furthermore… We need to establish new, inclusive leagues for transgender athletes. We propose a bill that would prohibit sports discrimination against transgender athletes and allow students to participate and compete in a league at their own discretion, a transgender women will not be allowed to participate in a biological woman’s sport as the transgender student will have a significant biological advantage, although we cannot deny these students their rights to compete in extracurricular activities and sports. 

We also propose, in the same bill, a section to safeguard transgender individuals' right to transition, although requiring parental consent and supervision until the student turns 18 years of age. Through these actions, we will consciously promote equality and protect transgender youth from making mistakes before their brains have fully developed. 

In a 2017 survey conducted by GLSEN, an organization devoted to LGBTQ issues in K-12 education, over 50% of transgender students have been forced to use bathrooms that do not match their identity. This data demonstrates the high prevalence of this issue and the need for urgent reform.

Respect and equal rights should be a birthright, not a difficult journey filled with obstacles, prejudice, and discrimination. This is not only for me but for all transgender students striving to live their lives true to their identity and in peace. Please sign this petition to take a step towards building a world that respects and protects everyone as they are.