You may find the title of this petition controversial, but I urge you to take a moment to consider what is at stake. Denying students the right to use their preferred names and pronouns can cause devastating emotional and mental distress.

Don’t believe me? States that have enacted anti-transgender laws affecting minors have seen a staggering 72% increase in suicide attempts among transgender and gender-nonconforming teenagers, according to a recent study by The Trevor Project. Other studies show that transgender youth who are supported in their identity experience significantly lower rates of depression and anxiety.

The Shawnee Mission School District Student Handbook states, “The District strictly prohibits discrimination and harassment against students, employees, or others on the basis of race, creed, religion, color, national origin, ancestry, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, genetic information, or any statutorily prohibited basis.” This policy must extend to respecting the names and pronouns of all students, especially those of us in marginalized communities.

Last year, I had a teacher who used my preferred name and pronouns in an email to my dad. Unfortunately, my dad “corrected” him, insisting he use my deadname and dead pronouns. According to the school district, there was nothing my teacher could legally do. That experience made me think deeply about our rights and the real-life consequences of these policies on students’ well-being.

The First Amendment of the Constitution states: “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances.”

This is about freedom of speech and expression. My experience, alongside the wave of anti-trans bills being passed in many states, is not just a matter of policy—it’s a matter of constitutional rights and human dignity. Whatever happened to the “Land of the Free”?

I understand that some people believe it’s against their religion to accept LGBTQ+ identities. However, not everyone shares the same beliefs, and imposing those beliefs on others does not protect your faith—it only serves your ego. Every student deserves to feel seen, heard, and validated. When we allow transgender students the freedom to express their true selves in school, we create a culture of acceptance and understanding that benefits everyone.

I also want to acknowledge all the allies who stand with us in support of transgender rights. Your voices matter, and they can amplify our call for change.

If you haven’t yet, I urge you to join me in advocating for the right of all students to express who they truly are. If you feel compelled to sign this petition, please share it with five or ten of your transgender friends and allies. If you’re not transgender, consider sharing it with your peers to help raise awareness.

For those of you feeling alone or struggling with your identity, I encourage you to seek support. Organizations like The Trevor Project and local LGBTQ+ groups are here to help. If you’re trans and your name and pronouns are being ignored, one strategy is to withhold responding until the person uses the name you prefer—it can be empowering.

Thank you for taking the time to consider these issues. Your support can make a real difference.

Update: As of February 15, 2026, I no longer identify as trans FTM. I have struggled with severe body dysmorphia for a long time, which I’ve since learned was not related to my gender. I remain close friends with many people under the trans umbrella, and I am keeping this petition up because I continue to believe strongly in the rights, safety, and dignity of transgender students.