I do NOT support Model Policies for Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools

<!DOCTYPE html>

I do NOT support the policies in the current wording of the "Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools" because they require unnecessary parental permission/control over a student choosing the pronoun(s) by which the student wishes to be called. This is an unnecessary codification of parental rights. If a young person named "William" prefers to be called "Bill" or "Willie," for instance, the young person should have the right to express that preference to teachers, staff, classmates, peers and other students, without any interference from their parents, even if their parents prefer the name "William."  Such a right of identity autonomy (in this case, to be called by a particular and preferred name) also stretches to a young person's choice of gender expression, including the pronouns they want other people to use when describing them. If someone objects to the pronoun(s) a young person has chosen for themselves, then a reasonable alternative is to simply call them by the name the young person chooses for themselves. To insist on calling someone by names or pronouns to which they object is at best rude and at worse bullying, harassment or abuse.  Students have the right to be respected and to be called by the names and pronouns of their choice, free of the influence of parents and regardless of what their parents prefer.


Hard Pass

an actual caring involved PTA Scout parent

<!DOCTYPE html>

This is entirely a political stunt.  I have one recent graduate and 2 high schoolers and I hear EVERY day about vaping in the bathrooms, bullying everywhere, fights and weapons....and this is what you're focusing on for EDUCATION?  Days upon days the kids don't learn anything.  teachers tell them not to come in for things like the PSAT.  None of my kids have ever had any issue with anything you're pretending to be so righteous about. Chesterfield County.  Join the school board or the PTA people.


I oppose this fully.


Transgender policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

I fully support the Govenor's new policies.


Strongly agree with Gov. Youngkin

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>Parental rights essential. Nothing done or discussed at school should be hidden from parents. Complete transparency. </p>


Support

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>It is never good to exclude or deceive parents.  I support the Governor.  You do not pass laws to deceive parents over a select few parents that are perceived as bad parents for not supporting every single belief of transgender or LGBT.  </p>


Proposed Transgender Policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>I strongly oppose this wrongheaded, discriminatory policy. Sounds like Youngkin forgot this is VA and we do not take things that hurt our citizens and students lightly. </p>


Strongly support gov. Younkins new policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

Dear Governor

Thank you so much for supporting us parents in this very important issue and for protecting our children. May God continue to bless you!


110% SUPPORT!!!!!

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p> </p>
<p>save girls sports! NO boys in girls bathrooms or locker rooms and def NOT in girls sports! </p>


Trans law

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>I am STRONGLY OPPOSED to the prosed law. Not only do I think trans people deserve the same rights as others, taking back rights - as this law is doing - is the sign of a repressive government.  Government should move forward; this law takes us backwards. You say it is giving a choice to the parents. In reality it is giving a choice only to some parents.  It has taken away the choice of those parents who support their trans children.  </p>


Do Not Support Proposed Guidance

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>I do not agree that parents need to sign off on a child's gender pronoun. There are many closed-minded parents who would not support children/teens who do not identify with their sex assigned at birth. It's bad enough to not get the support they really need at home, and that would be exacerbated by not being able to identify in the manner in which they feel the most comfortable at school . </p>


Support 2022 transgender policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

It's an issue of safety and just morally wrong to allow someone who has not surgically transitioned to enter a bathroom or locker room that does not match their biological sex.


Support proposed actions

<!DOCTYPE html>

Support the proposed actions 100%


Strongly support - parental rights are essential.

<!DOCTYPE html>

My children have been educated by Fairfax County school system.   I have seen a lot of changes implemented over 23 years , some were good, some horrible.  My takeaways:

Transparency is essential.  Most parents truly want to help their children and will support them, but cannot if information is withheld from them.  Parents may inadvertently make things worse by not knowing.  And if that happens, parents as well as students will be tramatized. It also bothers me that we've been teaching our children for years that the phrases  "don't tell your parents" and "this is our secret" are red flags for abuse, yet now it's okay???  While this is not about sexual abuse, it is still manipulative and is still wrong in ANY CONTEXT.

Parents must have the right to bring up their children as they see fit.  Parents know their child better than others, and want the best for them, despite what it may look like on the outside.

 Religious beliefs must be accommodated.  When religious beliefs are accommodated, the schools demonstrate tolerance and religious students are less likely to be bullied and tramatized.


Transgender rules in schools

<!DOCTYPE html>

I support our transgender children. Stop punishing them. They are not a threat to anyone


Policy making includes data and listening to your VDOE! I’ll never vote republican again!

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>When making policy you gather information from proper parties who are experts in the field of the topic.  Youngkin went sneakily behind his own departments, peer panels, dr and scholars to create a policy that is harmful and deadly to the trans youth in this state to drive his own mission of being president. He’s attacking trans kids bc it’s a hot topic bandwagon small minded way to excel himself with the republicans. He and other politicians spew fear and mis information regarding trans kids. Trans kids want to be left alone and that’s all there asking for. Show me crime data on cis white males vs crime data for trans kids. Trans kids are bullied, assaulted and in constant mental health programs bc of the treatment they endure at school from their peers. This only stigmatizes them further and senselessly. Zero data was created for this policy and that’s dangerous. I’m a tax payer and a voter, shame on youngkin for playing with our kids lives for the sake of his political position. I’ll never vote republican again! </p>


Educational rights for parents

<!DOCTYPE html>

Strongly support this guidance.


You’re overstepping

<!DOCTYPE html>

This is being passed under the guise of parental rights. Give me a break.


Transgender Policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

I support Gov. Youngkins transgender policy. When it comes to safety for all students, it is simply common sense to have transgender students use a single-use bathroom for their needs. It's just not safe for a young lady(transitioning to male) to enter a boys bathroom or locker room. No surgery has occurred so these young men still see her as a girl. Plus, it puts a male PE teacher in a challenging situation where he could be accused of sexual activity if the young lady is having a "bad" day. School divisions can provide other services to help these confused young people through a time in their life where a decision to make drastic changes in their body should be held off at least until 18 years of age or even older. The decision making portion of their brain does not fully develop until they are at least 25 years old.


Seems logical

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>It seems logical to include the parents in life decisions of a minor. It also seems logical to respect other students so the right of one don’t trod on the rights of others. Biological females need their own space for using the restroom & sports. Girls undergo a lot of changes and should be made to feel safe especially during their childhood years. </p>


I Do Not Support

<!DOCTYPE html>

The Model 2021 Policy should remain. The reasoning for the Model 2022 Policy being religious freedom codified in the U.S. Constitution is flawed. First, transgender is not a religious choice. Plus, Freedom of Religion protects people to believe what they like without scrutiny. Transgender bathroom usage, or any private business, is not a threat on Freedom of Religion. This Model 2022 Policy is flawed and only serves to harm a group of people in our Commonwealth.


Support our parents

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>I support the policy changes to give parents greater oversight of their Children’s education.  I support this proposed policy.   </p>


2022 Policies for public schools in VA

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>I TOTALLY Agree with new and revised policies proposed by Governor Younkin.  Our students should not be exposed to any issues with sex choices or identity.   School should be a place to learn reading, math, science and writing. Issues with personal sex opinions SHOULD be up to parents and NOT the schools or employees of school boards.  ALL students have basic rights and they ALL deserve protection but PARENTS should be in charge of sex matters with their children.  There is a SMALL percentage of students who have issues with so-called transgender issues, so why should this issue be inflated when REAL education issues continue to be IGNORED in Virginia schools.  LET'S CONCENTRATE ON REAL EDUCATION ISSUES AND LET PARENTS MANAGE PRIVATE SEX ISSUES WITH THEIR CHILDREN.  </p>


This will bring harm to trans kids.

<!DOCTYPE html>

This will bring harm to trans kids.


I support this change

<!DOCTYPE html>

I support this change because it has more common sense than the previous document.


Strongly support 2022 model policies

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>I support 2022 model policies </p>


I do not support this model policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

These proposed model policies are contrary to state law and will be extremely harmful to transgender and nonbinary kids. Protect trans and nonbinary kids. I believe in making our public schools a welcoming and safe place for all children.


Thank you for protecting our families

<!DOCTYPE html>

Thank you for getting the government out of family decisions. Until children reach the legal age of 18, they are the responsibility of parents. They should be involved in all decisions related to their children. We need to stop the school/government's overreach.


I support this change

<!DOCTYPE html>

I support this change. We need to make the safety of all students the top priority. Boys do not belong in girls' bathrooms, lockers, and showers. Thank you Governor Youngkin!


Fully Support the Protection of All Children

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>I fully agree with Gov Youngkin that parents and all childrens rights should be codified and respected. </p>


Protect Emotionally Vulnerable Children and Parental Rights!

Dear Virginia Dept of Education,

Schools should never secretly socially transition students and keep the child's new name, pronouns and gender identities from parents. I am pleased and relieved that the Virginia Department of Education's revised model policies support parental rights and ensure that school employees don't cut parents out of critical decisions for their children.

The Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) issued "model policies" in 2021 that encouraged every school district in Virginia to hide a child's new gender identity from parents who choose to affirm the child's biological sex. Under Governor Youngkin's leadership, the VDOE's revised policies make it clear that all children should be valued and parents' rights and beliefs should be respected. The 2022 Model Policies on the Privacy, Dignity, and Respect for all Students and Parents in Virginia's Public Schools keep parents involved in major decisions in their children's lives.

The 2021 VDOE "model policies" encouraged schools to create "a plan (that) may include addressing the student at school with their name and pronoun consistent with their gender identity while using the legal name and pronoun associated with the sex assigned at birth when communicating with parents or guardians."

I strongly support the revised policies that end this practice. Virginia schools should not drive a wedge between parents and their emotionally vulnerable children. Virginia school districts, including those who have already communicated their plans to ignore the 2022 revised model policies, should put an end to secret Gender Support Plans now.

Sincerely,
Marianne McLaughlin
5500 Holmes Run Pkwy
Alexandria, VA 22304

<!DOCTYPE html>

Dear Virginia Dept of Education,<br /><br />Schools should never secretly socially transition students and keep the child's new name, pronouns and gender identities from parents. I am pleased and relieved that the Virginia Department of Education's revised model policies support parental rights and ensure that school employees don't cut parents out of critical decisions for their children. <br /><br />The Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) issued "model policies" in 2021 that encouraged every school district in Virginia to hide a child's new gender identity from parents who choose to affirm the child's biological sex. Under Governor Youngkin's leadership, the VDOE's revised policies make it clear that all children should be valued and parents' rights and beliefs should be respected. The 2022 Model Policies on the Privacy, Dignity, and Respect for all Students and Parents in Virginia's Public Schools keep parents involved in major decisions in their children's lives.<br /><br />The 2021 VDOE "model policies" encouraged schools to create "a plan (that) may include addressing the student at school with their name and pronoun consistent with their gender identity while using the legal name and pronoun associated with the sex assigned at birth when communicating with parents or guardians." <br /><br />I strongly support the revised policies that end this practice. Virginia schools should not drive a wedge between parents and their emotionally vulnerable children. Virginia school districts, including those who have already communicated their plans to ignore the 2022 revised model policies, should put an end to secret Gender Support Plans now.<br /><br />Sincerely,
<br />Marianne McLaughlin
<br />5500 Holmes Run Pkwy<br />Alexandria, VA 22304<br /><img src="http://admin.phone2action.com/email/open/leg/657523/148798330" width="1" height="1" />


Parental Rights, Transgender Policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>Biological sex, not the way one identifies, should be the determinate for which facilities, male or female, one uses. Parents should always be told what is happening with their children in school and included in all decisions. If identified that a parent is abusive, a school mandated reporter will report the abuse. Parental rights should never be taken away by a sweeping policy. I support Governor Youngkin. </p>


New transgender school policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

I strongly approve of this new policy.

it is the parent’s responsibility; not the school systems.

children should be identified by their biological birth, including  for athletics, bathrooms, etc.

parents should be notified if their child is asking to be identified as anything else than y try heir name or nickname. Not to keep this vital information from them.


Treatment of Transgender students in a public school

<!DOCTYPE html>

I strongly support the bill proposed by the governor. Parents must be involved in their child's welfare.


Oppose this change

<!DOCTYPE html>

I am strongly opposed to the new guidance document for the following reasons:

Parental rights are already protected under the current guidance (for example, p11 "...School divisions are encouraged to communicate openly, albeit confidentially, with students and families regarding the student’s gender identity..."; p12 "School divisions will need to consider the health and safety of the student in situations where students may not want their parents to know about their gender identity, and schools should address this on a case-by-case basis.")

The proposed document is lesser, not better. The existing guidance provides school personnel with actual guidance, while the proposed document does next to nothing. (e.g. from p12 of existing document "Disclosing a student’s gender identity can pose imminent safety risks, such as losing family support or housing.").  Notice that the proposed document does not even define LGBTQ+ terminology. Is that a deliberate attempt to further marginalize trans kids, a deliberate technique to ensure confusion in discourse among parents and educators, or simply sloppy educational leadership?

Political strawman.  Running a school is inherently different from taking care of a family.  The existing guidance scrupulously attends to managing protections for vulnerable children in the public setting.  Parents can (and should) still be involved in raising their own families. The existing guidance allows school personnel to address differing needs of different families.  The existing document proceeds from the need to protect trans children from identified physical and emotional harms known to occur in compulsory education settings, issues of immediate safety.  The proposed document does not.

False dichotomy. The proposed document is presented as if, as Virginians, we have to choose between supporting parental rights and protecting vulnerable children in a school setting.  We can have both.  Leaders who pretend otherwise are either ignorant of actual problems in public schools, lack creativity in finding solutions that work for all of us, or trying to grandstand their way to higher office without actually doing the job they got elected to when they ran for office.


I strongly agree

<!DOCTYPE html>

Thank you Governor Youngkin. As a father of four, I am distressed that our children are being used as political weapons to further an ideological agenda. Two years ago, my wife and I decided to pull our youngest two children out of public schools because the system has lost our trust.  I appreciate your initiative to gain back that trust. You have a long way to go, so please do not lose your focus.


Strongly support this.


I support Governor Youngkin

<!DOCTYPE html>

I am thankful for Governor Youngkin and the steps he is making to keep parents involved in the decisions regarding our kids. I strongly support the updated language that acknowledges students and teachers can’t be forced into compelled speech that violates their constitutional rights, including First Amendment and religious freedom protections.


Strongly Agree

<!DOCTYPE html>

Kids should be kids and DNA defines your gender. Can’t change your DNA!!


If you pass the 2022 policy on transgender students, children will die

<!DOCTYPE html>

I am a Virginia parent. I oppose the new 2022 policy on transgender students (it's not backed by any reputable research, it limits parents' ability to support their child's transition, it encourages bullying & harassment, and it will cause children to die). I recommend we return to the 2021 policy.


Strongly Support, Keep up the great work Governor

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>Keep up the great work Governor. Theses weirdos are ruining our schools and they are a threat to our schools and children. You were elected for a reason. Keep up the great work. </p>


About time.

<!DOCTYPE html>

Nature has given the human race 2 Genders, anything else is just Mental instability. Parents should be involved in every aspect of their children's life and not taken away by the school system. People need to follow there God given Gender!


I support the Governor

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>Parents should be raising there children and not the school system. Schools need to stick to there roll, reading, writing, arithmetic etc. </p>


Reversal of accommodations for trans students

<!DOCTYPE html>

I strongly oppose this measure.


Support trans kids!

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>I am a high school teacher.  I work with all kinds of kids.  They all need the same thing: love and support.  Our society is diverse and beautiful.  Will some of these kids take a different path in later years?  Sure.  But giving them trust and respect now is essential.  It costs us nothing to respect names and pronouns.  I personally hate it when people don’t use my preferred honorific (I use Mx) because I resent that my gender and marital status are connected to how people politely address me.  Names matter!  Trying to learn who you are in high school is an arduous process.  It would be a step back to try to force antiquated societal expectations on our young people simply because some people don’t know as much as they think they do about gender identity and adolescent psychology.  Please, my students deserve better!  Parents still have the choice to run homes as they see fit and teach their values, but schools are supposed to be a place of inclusivity, fairness, equality, and safety!  I’ve seen it.  This is my life: helping kids grow up to be their best selves.  That is not accomplished by telling them they are wrong or bad or stupid for feeling how they feel.  Talk to the trans kids and their parents.  Hear their pair at exclusion.  Consider the suicide rates.  This is no small issue.  Please make Virginia a state of love and support and equality and pride in the fact that we support ALL our kids. Thank you. </p>


Parents need to know

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>As a child and teen and evenin college, I didn't fully understand what life was really about even though I thought I did.  Parents need to know and be involved so they can help guide their children. This is THEIR job, not the teacher's or friend's or social media and peer pressure.  They can change their names etc after they are an adult. </p>


Do not support.

<!DOCTYPE html>

I do not support caving in to the bullying of certain individuals trying to force their agenda. There are two genders. If someone wants to succumb to their mental confusion, that is their business. But there is a limit to the expectation that the rest of the world must participate in said delusion. Let kids be kids, not tiny victims.


Strongly Oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

-Harms students

-Increases mental health issues for students

-Promotes hate


Strongly Support this

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>Parents absolutely must be told by school officials if their minor child has gender questions or states that he/she has changed gender.  This is a family issue; the schools have NO place in this discussion.  Further, the schools should not introduce sexually explicit or sexual material to our elementary school aged children, to include transgender topics.  These are private issues that the family will address, at the appropriate time for their child(ren).  Finally, transgender minors should NOT be allowed to decide what bathroom and/or locker room to use; and what, sports team they will compete on.  </p>


Strongly oppose - children have rights too

<!DOCTYPE html>

As a parent, I understand other parents fear that society might have undue influence on their children. Unfortunately, every single argument I have heard against integrating transgender students in accord with their gender is based on ignorance or misinformation.

For example, the proposed policy has references to "biological sex".

In science there are three common definitions of sex, being: karyotypic (e.g. XX or XY chromosomes), genetic (e.g. SRY gene) and phenotypic (anatomy) including primary and secondary sex characteristics. Nature continues to confound with us with natural variation such that a particular person might be classified differently depending on the definition being used.

Scientists  Julia Richards and R. Scott Hawley, authors of The Human Genome  (see Chapter 8 - Sex Determination), expressed it this way:

Most individuals fall into one of two categories, clearly male or clearly female with complete consistency of genetic, gonadal, anatomic, and psychological aspects of sex within any one individual; however there clearly is a complex gradient that runs from male to female occupied by many different varieties of people who do not fall neatly into one of the two standard sexual definitions.

Using the common definition of sex is neither scientific or biological. Science is really about being able to reliably predict outcomes. In the context of segregated bathrooms, gender is a more reliable predictor of behavior.

Also, please consider that, for many trans children, their parents are their primary problem. Parents can prevent the children from transitioning socially which is necessary for their mental health or prevent children from receiving medically necessary healthcare. If parents did this for any other health issue they would be considered to be neglecting or harming their children.

For example, parents beliefs cannot seriously be taken into account when deciding to treat a life threatening illness. There is the equivalent evidence based foundation for treating trans kids in terms of the potential benefits of treatment and the harm of withholding treatment. Why is trans mental health and medical care any different?

I am a U.S. citizen living in Sweden where policies are more similar to the policy being replaced. We have essentially no problems of the kind the proposed policy seeks to address. Parents feelings about belief are treated as secondary to the welfare of children - as they should be.

Please reject this proposed policy as it is harmful to trans children and society in general.


All children need protection.  Their parents should be their first defense

<!DOCTYPE html>

I don’t believe that the Governor’s proposal is anti-trans.  It is crafted to support all children.  Parents need to know and be able to support and advocate for their children.


Parents should have the ultimate say

<!DOCTYPE html>

Our school systems cannot replace parents' roles in raising our children. Schools should not hide information about our childrens' health and well-being from parents. It is important that separate facilities for our children to maintain privacy when changing and using the restroom. Children of the opposite sex should not be allowed to enter the bathroom or locker room of the opposite sex. Requiring school personnel to call students by their preferred name and pronouns is not the desire of parents. We love our kids.


Parental Rights

<!DOCTYPE html>

It is time to return the decisions made for our children back to the parents.  It used to be, and should be again, the right of parents to know what is happening with the child at all times, even in the public forum of a school system.  The children are "minors".  The decisions regarding their well being should rest with the parents and guardians.


Free Education


This will bring harm to trans kids.

<!DOCTYPE html>

This will bring harm to trans kids.


Oppose proposed model policies

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>As a parent with children in Va public schools, there is no need or place for these proposed model policies. Children and youth can’t learn in settings where they don’t feel safe. The proposed policies are politically-driven, and run  counter to child development and school climate research. If implemented  and adopted by divisions, many children and youth, trans or not, will be made to feel unsafe and unwelcome in their schools. </p>


Completely support the proposed pro-parent policies

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>Governor Youngkin's proposed policy document supports all students and their parents. Human dignity is afforded to all students; none are excluded. The transgender dialogue has become a distraction to learning. Schools are not social laboratories for educators. Parents are primary in their child's life. </p>


I support this

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>Bathroom assigned by your sex for safety reasons. </p>


I strongly support Governor Youngkin on this issue

<!DOCTYPE html>

I strongly support Governor Youngkin's transgender policy.


I am completely opposed.

<!DOCTYPE html>

I am completely opposed.


Support Transgender Students

<!DOCTYPE html>

I am the grandmother of the sweetest, smartest, gentlest child and I am begging the State of Virginia to protect and defend his rights that have been fought for by Parents and Grandparents before me. Please do not allow our most vulnerable and precious children to be subjected to laws that are out dated and not backed by science.  We owe these children our support so they can grow and flourish, not be plagued with depression and suicidal inclinations.  Please show the nation that Virginia is a state where love truly leads.


Terrible  policy, please don't do this to the children.

<!DOCTYPE html>

This is a terrible policy, children, people need to be able to be who they are.  I don't know the solution to all the bathroom issues but don't take away the person's name and gender.  Reporting to a parent could endanger a child.  Schools need to be a safe place.  There are counselors and staff to help families and students.


Opposed! Protect Trans Kids!

<!DOCTYPE html>

Trans kids and gender non-conforming kids have some of the highest rates of being bullied within schools. When they are deadnames, misgendered, forcibly outed, and ostracized, they also have some of the highest rates of self-harm and suicide attempts. When they aren't able to access the facilities that align with their gender identity, they often avoid participating in sports, gym and refrain from using the bathroom altogether. Bathroom avoidance is a common problem for transgender students and is linked to medical problems and diminished educational outcomes. For instance, in a 2013 study conducted by the Williams Institute, 54 percent of transgender respondents reported some sort of health problem related to bathroom avoidance, including dehydration, urinary tract infections, kidney infections and other kidney problems.

School is hard enough, we need to protect trans and GNC kids so that they can thrive and make the world a better place!


Shame on Youngkin

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>What a terrible message to send to youth, Youngkin is a danger to our kids. Remove the shiny homophobe from office! </p>


School policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

I agree with our Governor. We need to teach education like math and reading. There's no place for this in school's. Young children don't need to learn about this! This should be an adult decision not a first graders!


Protect trans kids

<!DOCTYPE html>

The 2022 Model Policies Will Harm Transgender and Nonbinary Students. You are not stopping trans-ness (it is natural, there is no stopping it). You are only causing students and families extreme pain.

And if that's your goal, SHAME ON YOU, you shouldn't be allowed power over any other person.


Gov Youngkin policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

I fully support Gov. Youngkin and his policy .


I fully support this.

<!DOCTYPE html>

Thank you for acknowledging parental rights.


I am strongly opposed.


Agree! Keep these weirdos out of our schools.

<!DOCTYPE html>

Trans people are mentally ill.  But the people who push for “trans” rights are snake oil salesmen.  Face reality, you cant decide what sex you are.  Weirdos!!


I oppose this fully.


I strongly oppose this proposal.

<!DOCTYPE html>

I strongly oppose this action.


I am completely opposed.


I fully oppose this.


I fully support it


I support it


I Dissent.

<!DOCTYPE html>

As a parent, I find it ridiculous that I may need to approve something as simple as a nickname due to the broad wording in this guidance.  This is a clear government overreach.

As a concerned citizen, I am appalled that Virginia would try to limit opportunities for youth self-expression, which supports social-emotional health and well-being, when our youth  are already experiencing a growing mental health crisis.

I support trans youth, and I strongly oppose this guidance document.


Do the right thing for humanity

<!DOCTYPE html>

Parental rights are sacred.

Children under the age of 18 deserve to have strong parental guidance when making permanent physical changes to their bodies.

It is parents and grandparents who will live long term with the decisions being made today. Not doctors, teachers, or school counselors.

Dads and Moms should be included in all decision making for minors under the age of 18.

Jenny Hatch

 Colorado


<!DOCTYPE html>

I oppose this in the strongest possible manor.


Thank you for your consideration and (hopefully) passing of these policies

<!DOCTYPE html>

Our children are the most precious resources we have and as parents we need to ensure that they are protected not just physically but mentally as well. Parents should always be involved in the decisions concerning our kids. Children are not political pawns and should never be used as tools to progress the current whims of political posturing. Please keep common sense and the basic fundamentals at the core of our education system. We cannot cater to wants and desires over basic truths. We cannot afford to continue to cater to the culture of confusion and/or give in to attention seeking behavior. Acceptance of the realities of life is fundamental behavior and a knowledge that we all need to develop and carry in our lives, especially in those who are most impressionable and will become our future.
I am in full support of these policy changes and thank you re-anchoring our children in reality and keeping parents involved in the decisions impacting our children.


Strongly SUPPORT!

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>I Support the new policy. The transgender students will still be treated with support and respect. </p>
<p> </p>


Strongly oppose the 2022 model guidance policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

The 2022 model policies should not be adopted. They will not result in any fairness to transgender students. The proposed policy claims that the 2021 policies are trying to force ideologies on students but that is not correct. Acknowledging the existence and validity of transgender students does not force a belief on someone. It is simply a matter of respect, something that transgender students desperately need. Every major mainstream and respected medical and psychological associations have determined that affirming gender identity and respecting pronouns are beneficial and that students who are respected have less incidents of suicide and other psychological trauma.

The new policies mention religious freedom and speech, presumably referring to the supposed right of a teacher to misgender and deadname a student. The concept of religious freedom in the constitution was to ensure that an individual has the right to worship or not worship as they pleased. Misgendering a student is not part of religious freedom. It is nothing more than bullying and is absolutely reprehensible.

Transgender students just want to be able to be themselves without fear of bullying, harassment or being treated as something abnormal or immoral. I fear that the proposed 2022 policies would have a detrimental effect on these children.

Please protect the rights of these vulnerable students and do not allow the 2022 model guidelines to be put in place


Do not do this.


Strongly oppose.


I oppose the proposed changes to the Model Policies

<!DOCTYPE html>

I am commenting to oppose the proposed changes to the 2022 Model Policies.  In particular, as the parent of two kids, I take issue with the idea that the primary guiding principle is a school's responsibility to parents.  This is absurd; a school needs to be first and foremost responsible to the kids it serves.  I don't spend 7 hours a day, 5 days a week there; why should my concerns come first?

Additionally, the idea that the only way to respect the rights of parents is by denying rights to transgender kids is offensive.  This document is supposed to address privacy, dignity, and respect for all students, but denies all three of these concepts to transgender kids, by forcing school districts to out them to their parents, by assuming they should not have agency over how they are identified, and by requiring them to fight for basic human dignity.

Finally, the current state of affairs is not problematic.  Permitting transgender kids to use pronouns and bathrooms in agreement with their gender identity harms no one, and is associated with much more positive outcomes for these students.

It is the government's job to protect the minority from the majority, and work to guarantee equal rights for all.  This document falls far short of that ideal, and should be rescinded.


Where is your Christian charity when it's really needed?

<!DOCTYPE html>

The proposed 2022 document is vague and meaningless. Only a lawyer or politician could parse it enough to understand what the Government is trying to impose on the people of Virginia. All I know is that the Christian Right's belief that there are only two sexes is just that, their belief. They do not have science or life experience or even Christian charity on their side. As the sibling of a transgender woman who tried all her life to conform to society's expectations, who joined the Army and partook in "manly" careers and hobbies with the hope of "curing" herself, who almost killed herself with drink, who suffered from depression and suicidal ideation UNTIL she was able to share who she truly was inside. The fact that she was not able to live her truth and get the medical care she needed prior to puberty has made her current life that much harder. The Governor of Virginia, conservative lawmakers, and school boards have no right to force children to be anything other than who they know themselves to be. Public schools are not for the Christian Right to run. If you don't like public school, go to a private school.


OPPOSE this harmful policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>Students benefit from a learning environment that is safe and where they are supported for who they are, whomever they may be. To suggest, as this policy does, that having a gender identity different than one’s biological sex is a personal choice or based on subjective experience, ignores the 2018 evidence-based statement by the American Academy of Pediatrics that “variations in gender identity and expression are normal aspects of human diversity,” and instead perpetuates harmful rhetoric. This policy shift masquerades itself as parental choice by twisting the claim that parental engagement leads to better educational outcomes to fit its agenda, while ignoring that students who identify elsewhere on the gender spectrum than cis-gender experience rates of homelessness well above their cis-gendered peers, which confirms these students are at risk of facing unsupportive home environments if their gender identity is shared with their parents without their consent. Further, this 2022 policy ironically claims the 2021 policy “promoted a specific viewpoint aimed at achieving cultural and social transformation in schools.” Promoting the support and well-being of ALL students in the public school system should ALWAYS be the goal; however, this policy is narrow-minded, ignores evidence-based practices in education, public health, and medicine, and further propagates harm and judgment towards marginalized students. I am very strongly opposed to this change. </p>


Guidance Document

<!DOCTYPE html>

Parents have total responsibility for their children.   Teachers are 'Public Servants' serving to help parents in the education of their children in the disciplines of learning.

Having taught for over thirty years in public education, the only time the NEA started interfering in 'curriculum' was when they tried to put in 'sex education' under the false title of Family Life in the early 90s.

Sadly they have gone way beyond now and are way over the line an legal limits of their responsibilities.


strongly oppose - Inhumane to the highest degree

<!DOCTYPE html>

I transitioned when I was 15 under the fairfax county school system in 2010. Most likely one of the first to do so in the state. I Was made to feel so alienated and othered by my school administration, not letting me go pee in the bathroom the marched who I am. I’ve been transitioned for 13 years now and there has never been any issue using the restroom outside of this time, because literally trans people want to do is go pee and not feel like they are any different from anyone else. The only things these policies do is bully children who already have it so hard, I know, once again I was one of them. After I dropped out of FCPS it was so great to hear about the increased acceptance and its so sad to hear that things are getting worse than they were 13 years ago. I shouldn’t even need to be typing this but stop bullying kids, have some empathy and be thankful that you weren’t born this way.


I strongly oppose this bill for Virginia's kids

<!DOCTYPE html>

I urge the BoE to reject the 2022 model policy regarding the treatment of trans* students. It rolls back protections long fought for by students and their families. All students should be accommodated and supported in Virginia schools. Paperwork regarding names and pronouns is an unnecessary and deliberate hindrance to well-being and a tax on families. It ignores all the work done to advocate for our kids for years and peer-reviewed studies and overwhelming data showing the severe mental health toll on children and young people when they're unable to truly be themselves.


Against!!!

<!DOCTYPE html>

This policy puts transgender kids at risk, does not respect them or their parents, and is unnecessary. Our kids live in a big world and they are learning how to treat differences respectfully, but policies like this do nothing but divide, foster fear, and promote hate. Definitely vote against this policy!


support!  Normalizing mental Illness is wrong

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>Thank you for putting parents first over crazy radical agendas that create confusion and push our children toward thinking there is anything other than male and female.. </p>


SUPPORT!!!!

<!DOCTYPE html>

Parents should not be pushed out of their children's lives and wellbeing. The schools should not have more power and influence over their children than the parents do


Strongly oppose this mean-spirited policy.

<!DOCTYPE html>

The governor must withdraw this guidance on transgender students in our schools.  It is horribly destructive.  Many transgender kids are going through an extremely difficult period in which they are trying to figure out their identity and they are afraid that they will not be able to discuss this difficult subject, yet, with disapproving parents.  The student may seek advice or a sympathetic ear of a kind teacher.  Under this policy, that teacher would be required to report back to the parents.  This will cause unnecessary crises and trauma.  It is almost guaranteed to cause some suicides.

This stupid policy is a mean-spirited, counter-productive, unnecessary intrusion by big government into the classroom.  Please withdraw it.


AGAINST THE FAIRFAX COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD ACTIONS CONCERNING VDOE GUIDELINES

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p> I have learned that the Fairfax County School Board does not plan to adopt, nor abide by, the Virginia Department of Education  guidelines outlining "model policies" for dealing with transgender, nonbinary, and gender-nonconforming students in school. This concerns me because these guidelines support the rights of parents to make decisions concerning everything relating to their child's education including all information concerning their child. Teachers and all school personnel must give all information concerning each student to the student's parents or guardian. I am against the Fairfax County School Board's action concerning the Virginia Department of Education guidelines promulgated by Governor Youngkin. </p>


I support this welcome 2022 change

<!DOCTYPE html>

There are three reasons I support this change to the model policy:

1) too much of the earlier model policies were not based on science - but rather on some half-formed "feeling" that this sensitive subject was a real opportunity to do something progressive and daring.    I applaud risk-taking, but not with our most impressionable and vulnerable children's education.

2) It recognizes that childhood bullying cannot be tolerated.   It doesn't matter whether the bully is misbehaving because the victim has an unusual name, or speaks with an accent, or wears expensive sneakers.   However, that is an insufficient reason to adopt a policy that is uncomfortably close to "grooming" a juvenile to accept a sexual orientation.   Our talented public school teachers have neither the psychological education nor mandate to shape a juvenile's sexual orientation.    Nor should they be required to do so under threat of the School Administrator's retaliation - that is just abuse of authority.

3) Finally, I belonged to a secular NGO organization in which a surprising number of Virginia parents "home-schooled" their children.  This was so different from my own educational experience - I asked them why take on such a burden, when public schools in VA provide a free and usually well-regarded education?  They uniformly stated their opposition to the "policies" being taught to their children which were against their own deeply held beliefs.   When a significant segment of the adult population believe their values are disrespected in taxpayer funded schools - the instruction must be changed to be more tolerant of their beliefs - even if different than our own.


Protect Transgender Youth

The 2021 Model Policies required that “schools shall eliminate the practice ofsegregating students by gender to the extent possible.” These policies alsorequired that when event participation was sex-segregated, school districts had to“allow students to participate in a manner consistent with their gender identity.”
The 2022 Model Policies remove the provision requiring schools to eliminate sex-segregation as much as possible. Now, these policies require that sex-segregation be based on biological sex as opposed to gender identity. While the 2022 ModelPolicies state, “[School Division] shall provide reasonable modifications to thispolicy only to the extent required by federal law,” they require districts to breakfederal law while trying to save face and tell them to follow it within the very sameparagraphs.
This is blatant gender based segregation affecting transgender and cisgenderedstudents, that sets the VA public school system on the path to inherit policies ofPlessy v Ferguson. This breaking and reconfiguring of federal laws to achieve societalerasure of human beings. Of children.These policies affect my (gender non-conforming and transgender) peers.Multiple schools within the same district would see an influx in transfer studentsfrom the surrounding areas due to the inhumane treatment experienced by theimpacted students from their previous schools. For schools in typicallyprogressive areas, their school system may not be able to handle a larger capacityof students and overcrowding will result. Which places stress on the system torezone or allocate more funds to accommodate the increased school attendance.From second hand experiences, the process of re assimilating in a newenvironment is exhaustive enough for adolescents’ mental health to worsen.Given then two options between being forced to be in an incredibly mentally damagingenvironment or leaving that system and existing in their own space. If the 2022policies were to pass, there would be significant portion of students withdrawing from school in the forthcoming years.In the non-cisgendered student’s perspective, why should they [the student] beobliged to attend an institution that denies their existence and face demands ofstate authority that restrict individual’s expression?There will be an increase in the public school drop out/withdrawal rate. Raisingconcerns with VA public school rating 5th in the nation in lowest drop out rates.
I plead with you to repeal the 2022 Model Policies and reinstate the 2021 ModelPolicies. To avoid endangering fellow students, to avoid losing trust in teacherswho were meant to offer guidance and are pressured to strike fear or risk unemployment, and please to avoid the foreseen burdens our school systems wouldbear.

<!DOCTYPE html>

The 2021 Model Policies required that “schools shall eliminate the practice of
segregating students by gender to the extent possible.” These policies also
required that when event participation was sex-segregated, school districts had to
“allow students to participate in a manner consistent with their gender identity.”

The 2022 Model Policies remove the provision requiring schools to eliminate sex-
segregation as much as possible. Now, these policies require that sex-segregation be based on biological sex as opposed to gender identity. While the 2022 Model
Policies state, “[School Division] shall provide reasonable modifications to this
policy only to the extent required by federal law,” they require districts to break
federal law while trying to save face and tell them to follow it within the very same
paragraphs.

This is blatant gender based segregation affecting transgender and cisgendered
students, that sets the VA public school system on the path to inherit policies of
Plessy v Ferguson. This breaking and reconfiguring of federal laws to achieve societal
erasure of human beings. Of children.
These policies affect my (gender non-conforming and transgender) peers.
Multiple schools within the same district would see an influx in transfer students
from the surrounding areas due to the inhumane treatment experienced by the
impacted students from their previous schools. For schools in typically
progressive areas, their school system may not be able to handle a larger capacity
of students and overcrowding will result. Which places stress on the system to
rezone or allocate more funds to accommodate the increased school attendance.
From second hand experiences, the process of re assimilating in a new
environment is exhaustive enough for adolescents’ mental health to worsen.
Given then two options between being forced to be in an incredibly mentally damaging
environment or leaving that system and existing in their own space. If the 2022
policies were to pass, there would be significant portion of students withdrawing from school in the forthcoming years.
In the non-cisgendered student’s perspective, why should they [the student] be
obliged to attend an institution that denies their existence and face demands of
state authority that restrict individual’s expression?
There will be an increase in the public school drop out/withdrawal rate. Raising
concerns with VA public school rating 5th in the nation in lowest drop out rates.

I plead with you to repeal the 2022 Model Policies and reinstate the 2021 Model
Policies. To avoid endangering fellow students, to avoid losing trust in teachers
who were meant to offer guidance and are pressured to strike fear or risk unemployment, and please to avoid the foreseen burdens our school systems would
bear.


Protect ALL Students

<!DOCTYPE html>

All students deserve to feel safe at school and respected no matter how they identify or present.
Please ensure that schools become or remain safe spaces for everyone.


Strongly oppose these model policies - it's against supportive parental rights

<!DOCTYPE html>

As a family with a child in a Virginia public school, we strongly oppose these model policies.  They are against Virginia law, Title IX, and the recent Grimm v. Gloucester County School Board ruling.  Transgender children need community support and kindness, not bigotry in the name of "religious freedom".   60% of transgender youth who have experienced bathroom discrimination reported that they had considered suicide.

These rules also set up roadblocks for supportive parents of transgender children to affirm their gender identity.  If schools can't create transgender-affirming policies, the model policies would allow teachers and school officials to choose not use the preferred name and gender of the child which would be against the parent's wishes.

There are so many more pressing issues with Virginia's schools that discriminating against a small population of students who need the most support is needlessly cruel.  All children deserve safe and supportive spaces where they can learn and be free from harrassment.  This includes transgender children with supportive families and especially for children with families that don't support them.


I support Parents Rights and Gov. Youngkin

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>I support the updated language that enables parents to communicate with their children when they need it most, to discuss important issues and help them through challenging times and decisions.  I also support it, because it empowers schools to make decisions on how to best protect the kids, especially when it comes to protecting vulnerable students when undressing in locker rooms or overnight sleeping quarters for school field trips.  </p>


I am completely against this new policy!

<!DOCTYPE html>

If this were a perfect world and all parents cared equally for their children then we would not need foster care systems, adoption agencies, social services, and other places put in place to do what some parents are unable or unwilling to do.  I am a transgender man and my earliest memories are trying to figure out how to make the body I came in fit to the person I wanted to be.  My family tried to beat my difference out of me but could not.  Religion was part of the reason and my family’s culture the rest I suppose.  They were uncomfortable with how my difference looked to the outside world.  As an educator with over 30 years experience I feel completely uncomfortable giving parents the power over the curriculum in my classroom.  I have worked so hard to fine tune my craft there is not a parent that I have dealt with in my career that had close to my expertise - why should they be able to have such an impact in my classroom?  When does your freedom step on my freedom?  No one has the right answers all of the time.  Being a transgender person is not a choice, it is how we came into the world.  We are here and are not going away and are just trying to live an authentic life the best we can.  It is so much healthier for a person to be able to be who they are as soon as they can.  Parents unfortunately are not always the best authority - lets protect the kids please.  Thank you!


Support this Pro-Parent Reasonable Policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>The new policies respect the important role of parents in the care of their children during school and activities and require schools to enforce laws and regulations that prohibit and deter bullying or harassment.  The policies also reasonably require students to use bathrooms that correspond to their sex or single-user bathrooms and direct that student participation in athletics should be determined by sex.  </p>
<p> </p>


Fear or love?

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>Every human deserves the right to be themselves, even if that makes you uncomfortable or you don’t understand it. It doesn’t matter what your beliefs are regarding trans people - that should not be imposed on everyone. Refusing to respect trans kids by refusing to call them by their preferred name and pronouns is utterly disrespectful and reprehensible. I encourage you to be led by love and empathy instead of fear. Refusing to acknowledge the existence of trans kids will not make them disappear. Rather it will cause long term damage to students who are denied the respect of their identity. Please consider the great harm you will be causing to many students by passing these policies. Lives are on the line here. </p>


Kids should be able to figure who they are without fear

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>I understand that a lot of people view their children as extension of themselves and therefore don't see the need to allow children privacy. But children are humans and therefore deserving of privacy. If you want to find out if your kid is trans you should make sure that you have created a relationship with them where they can feel comfortable talking to you without the fear of punishment or rejection. Also remember that this won't just affect your kid but the other people's kids. Kids who have probably valid reasons for not wanting their parents knowing about their gender identity. Kids should be allowed a space to figure out who they are without fear. Forcing kids to come out is dangerous and unforgivable. </p>


Transgender rules in school

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>As a grandma, I strongly stand with letting boys and girls develop as they grow and not teaching about gender identity in school, or instituting rules that embarrass or endanger them. This is in my view a topic for grown people to decide for themselves, in light of more and more people now trying to de-transition from a sex change.  Families are the bedrock of our society. Forces that pull them apart are tearing at our nation's well being.  I believe forcing gender identity issues on people is like insisting that we agree with something that we know is not true. It is not good for children and devastating for parents.  Children need basic skills of reading, writing, math, science, history, civics to make their way in the world.  </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>


Va Public Schools Transgender Policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

I strongly oppose. Please consider the original policy proposed/written.


Respect & Dignity for Trans Youth

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>This proposal, if passed, will be tremendously harmful to transgender youth in our public schools. The “2022 model” would deprive trans youth of the basic respect, decency, and comfort that they should be able to expect in school. Parents may not like to hear it, but young people have rights and deserve to be treated as full human beings. This proposal would subject some of the most vulnerable people in our community to dehumanization and abuse, and would raise the already tragically high rates of suicidality among transgender youth. Please, please do not go through with this change of policy. The lives of these students are in your hands. </p>


Strongly OPPOSE - Protect trans students

<!DOCTYPE html>

I came out as a transgender woman and began transition when I was almost 35 years old. Coming out and transitioning has been one of the most beautiful, uplifting, and wonderful experiences of my life. I am happy to be transgender, and I am happy for others who are transgender, non-binary, and/or queer. To exist as a trans and queer person in society is a celebration of life. It is also a protest to those who seek to stigmatize us and restrict on our day-to-day lives.

The 2022 proposed model policies are fundamentally harmful to transgender students and seek to make school impossible for them to navigate. They do this by forcing teachers to out students to their parents, requiring and allowing teachers to deadname and misgender students, and restricting access to restrooms and other facilities corresponding to students’ gender identities. These policies will harm transgender students physically and mentally, will harm their learning, and are designed to stigmatize and alienate transgender students from their peers.

These 2022 proposed model policies are not neutral acts. These policies appear rooted in “desistance” conversion therapy that seeks to delay students’ transitions with the hope that they give up on themselves and conform to conservative gender roles and expectations. Because this approach is so egregiously abusive toward students, conversion therapy is illegal in the state of Virginia when done by medical professionals. Now, Governor Youngkin wants to require untrained teachers to engage in these practices during the school day, and to alert parents, some of whom may likewise attempt conversion therapy on their children. Schools should not engage in, make possible, or support conversion therapy on transgender students.

There is a risk in outing students to their parents without their permission. If parents do not already know the student is transgender, the student may not have told them due to a belief they would be abused by their parents if the parents knew. I grew up in a family that believed that their Christian religious beliefs condemn LGBT+ people as sinful and forever apart from God. My earliest memories of my parents include their criticism for how I wanted to engage in gender expression and the knowledge that I could not trust them enough to be my true self around them. As a teen, the church denomination we were a part of voted to permit gay people to serve as pastors, and my parents took us out of that church in search of one more fully against gay people. It was not safe to come out to my parents growing up. However, all of their efforts to raise me as straight and cisgender failed because they couldn’t change who I am at my core. Their desire for me to be different than I was harmed our relationship, and when I was a child or teen they had the opportunity to do far more harm.

Like my parents, many parents are not prepared or suited to lovingly raise LGBT+ children, and as queer children, we tend to know when it won’t be safe coming out to our parents. Children pay attention to their parents and know them better than anyone else as supportive or anti-LGBT+. LGBT+ children and teenagers have the same needs of self-expression and wholeness in their relationships as everyone else. We need friends and adults in our lives to see us as we are, share a more positive vision of our queerness, and let us feel alive as ourselves. Part of the human condition is that to fully thrive, we need freedom of expression, freedom of thought and speech, freedom to learn about ourselves, freedom to talk about ourselves, and freedom from abuse and harassment.

The requirement of the 2022 proposed model policies for teachers and school personnel to out students to their parents is deeply harmful. They violate the fundamental freedoms and privacy that students and all people need to grow and develop. It takes teachers, who are meant to meet students where they are at in instruction so that all students can flourish, and destroys all trust in them. When I was completing my Masters of Education and student teaching, I learned that trust of students for their teachers greatly improves student learning. If students cannot trust you, they will not learn from you. The proposed model policy eliminates one of the few positive relationships with adults that LGBT+ students may have, isolates students, and makes them more vulnerable to sexual and other abuse, in addition to parental abuse when anti-LGBT+ parents learn from teachers that their student is LGBT+. As a child, I knew I wouldn’t be safe in my parents home if someone told them I am transgender, and I am scared for the students who may have to face this as a result of the proposed model policy.

Schools should not interfere in the student/parent relationship by violating student privacy and confidentiality. Instead, students need to be supported in coming out to their parents on their own timeline, not outed by a teacher who is breaking their trust, and not pushed to do so before they are ready. Schools should lead the community in accepting transgender students for who they are, helping them grow, and developing proactive trans-positive outreach and resources for parents and others about what it means to be transgender, and on accepting, caring for, and supporting transgender youth. When they do come out, students should be able to receive support through their schools no matter how parents react, but especially when parents have negative or harmful reactions, do not accept them, abuse them, kick them out, and/or are negligent in providing healthcare.

Even as an adult, as soon as I came out publicly and changed my name, I faced harassment in the form of intentional and repeated deadnaming (being called by my old name, rather than chosen name) and misgendering (being referred to as a different gender from the one I am). Deadnaming and misgendering are psychologically harmful practices that made me feel continually on edge and in danger. The model policy for Virginia schools requires teachers to deadname and misgender their students. They can only use the correct name and gender when instructed by parents, and even then can opt to continue harassing, deadnaming, and misgendering the student if they want, citing religious beliefs. No student should have to face this. Harassing students for being transgender is never okay, no matter the justification.

Religions universally talk about love, but have long been used as cover for hateful beliefs in the US, such as the supremacy of men over women, of white people over Black people, of one religion over another. Religious bigotry is unacceptable, including when directed against LGBT+ people. Actions like harassment, deadnaming, and misgendering that harm students and other people need to be stopped, not protected by Virginia. Teachers do not have complete freedom of personal religious expression in schools to harass girls, BIPOC students, or Jewish students (as examples), nor should they when it comes to LGBT+ students.

When I was harassed with intentional and repeated deadnaming and misgendering as an adult, I was able to make it through that situation through the support of friends, colleagues, community, clergy, and others in my life, and through the support of legal protections for LGBT+ people in the workplace. The EEOC states that “intentionally and repeatedly using the wrong name and pronouns to refer to a transgender employee could contribute to an unlawful hostile work environment.” The new model policies are attempting to mandate a hostile learning environment in Virginia schools, and to deny students the legal protections they are afforded by Title IX, the Virginia Values Act, and court precedent from our very own Virginia, set in Grimm v. Gloucester County School Board, establishing the right of students to use facilities corresponding to their gender identity.

Restroom access is a fundamental necessity for all students. For transgender students, this means to have access to the facility corresponding to their gender identity, and to not be separated from others. It is already the law, and it is the safest approach for everyone. In 2018, The National Task Force to End Sexual and Domestic Violence composed of 250+ Anti-Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Organizations issued a National Consensus Statement in Support of Full and Equal Access for the Transgender Community, opposing the anti-transgender myth that protecting transgender people’s access to restrooms and locker rooms endangers the safety or privacy of others. It does not. Transgender people value and support safety and privacy in restrooms.

Restrooms being accessible to transgender people prioritizes the safety, privacy, and health of all people and helps transgender people to be safer and healthier. The new proposed model policy harms transgender students by stigmatizing them and returning to forcing students to choose between a restroom not in alignment with their gender identities or none at all.

As a child and teenager, I felt so anxious about using the restroom of the gender I was assigned at birth that I never did. I would wait to use the restroom all throughout the school day until I was able to go home. This required me to eat small lunches, then no lunch in high school once meals were no longer monitored so closely. I also severely limited my intake of fluids. Restroom access is also a nutrition issue and a health issue, which can have cascading effects on learning. Like all students, transgender students need to be able to safely use the restroom, and need to be able to eat and drink, to maintain the health of their bodies.

Schools and teachers have a responsibility to protect the students in their care from harm. The new model policy will seriously and irreparably exploit and harm transgender, non-binary, queer, and questioning students in Virginia schools. I am fully against these policies and believe they should not be implemented. They mandate and permit harassment, abuse, and discrimination against transgender students – exactly what the law was intended to prevent. These new model policies should not be implemented and Virginia should retain the 2021 Model Policies. The 2021 model policies took common sense measures to protect transgender students from harassment and discrimination at school. The 2022 model policies fail to do so, and put students in greater danger in school.


Strongly oppose.


Oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

Bigoted cruelty toward transgender children


Strongly Oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

I strongly oppose the proposed policies. The students who will be impacted by this will be the ones who could face transphobic bullying and discrimination if they are described as an "other" by the school system and the Virginia state government. These policies would create an unrealistic bubble and prevent transgender students from expressing themselves during a key development stage in their lives -- something that could have far-lasting psychological impacts on transgender students.


Trans Rights are human rights

<!DOCTYPE html>

Allowing discrimination against one group infects antidiscrimination efforts against others. Schools cannot embrace diversity, tolerance, and mutual respect in some ways, but deny it in others and still obtain the benefits of inclusive classrooms. Students who see their transgender peers being treated as “less than” justifiably fear that they one day will be treated as “less than” as well.


Supporting keeping kids safe and parental rights

<!DOCTYPE html>

I support this guidance document. In Virginia Beach, schools have overreached and been pushing an ideology that includes giving minors access to pornographic books without even requiring parental consent. This is harmful to children and cuts parents out of the welfare, safety and education of their children. This new guidance document supplies guardrails to put parents  back in the equation and protect individual rights

Middle and High School years can be difficult. comprehensive bullying policies are thankfully in place to ensure a safe environment, while still respecting the rights of all students. That’s  why it’s important schools have the freedom—as this updated policy allows— to address bathroom/privacy issues on a case by case basis with parents—and not through a one-size-fits-all pressure tool that treats all districts/communities the same.


Strongly oppose- gender affirmation saves lives

<!DOCTYPE html>

I am strongly opposed to this and any guidance which would make it more difficult for transgender and gender expansive children to be recognized as their authentic selves while in school. Transgender children exist. Study after study shows that gender affirmation is the best way to protect the mental health of these students. Acknowledgement and affirmation at school can offset lack.of acceptance at home. Outing children to their parents,  where those parents are not affirming, forcing them to use facilities which do not reflect their presentation,  and refusing to acknowledge chosen names and pronouns is cruel and potentially deadly, whereas the prior guidance harms no one.


STRONGLY OPPOSE

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>These proposed model policies are contrary to state law and will be extremely harmful to transgender and nonbinary kids. The proposed policies seek to erase transgender and non-binary youth from the classrooms, creating a hostile and potentially dangerous school environment for children who already face too much discrimination. School can sometimes be the only safe space for trans and non-binary kids if their parents and households are unsupportive of who they are. Do not take away the option for these children to seek counseling and support from teachers and school staff.  An overwhelming number of Virginians oppose these transphobic policies. Tran rights are human rights. Protect trans and nonbinary kids.  RESCIND these model policies. </p>


This law will destroy trusting student-teacher relationships

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>I am a former VA public school student who studies education policy at Harvard. Current literature suggests that trusting teacher-student relationships are essential components of student success. I expect this bill will destroy trust between LGBTQ youth and their teachers, leading to worse engagement and educational outcomes for LBGTQ youth in VA. You should also consider the adverse impact of this bill on the mental health of LGBTQ students, many of whom rely on the school system for mental health services. </p>


Parents Must be able to make Decisions for their Children in School

<!DOCTYPE html>

The Lord says that Homosexuality and Transgenderism is an Abomination in addition to other Deviant Sexual Habits and Lifestyles. These People will Not Inherit The Kingdom of Heaven.

Parents are Responsible for Their Children's Upbringings!

The Lord God IS Watching.


Support transgender children

<!DOCTYPE html>

There are (now) laws which protect children from physical abuse from their parents.  Sadly, there are no laws which protect children from mental or emotional abuse from their parents.  This change in policy will certainly lead to continued rates of depression and suicide in transgender children.  This change in policy removes any chance for a minor transgender child to have a safe place outside of an abusive home.  One can't help but wonder if that is not an underlying purpose of this policy, in the guise of "parental rights."

Yes, some children go through "phases." And others have a strong sense of who they are (and are not) from an early age.  Why must these children be subjected to being treated as "less than" based on religious zeal cloaked in legal policy?  The Constitution, as well as Supreme Court decisions affirm not only freedom of religion, but also freedom FROM religion. And let's be real. This policy is nothing more than forcing narrow religious beliefs and behaviors upon everyone.

Transgender students aren't asking you to cast off your religious beliefs, or to accept their interpretation of gender.  They are merely asking to be respected.  In as much as you wish your idea and interpretation of religion to be respected.

Parents have rights.  Parents SHOULD be highly involved in their child's education and in their lives. It is the job of the parent to provide context for a child. To define their family values and beliefs.

The child of a reasonable parent has no need to hide information.  The previous policy was designed to protect children from an unreasonable parent.  An unsafe parent.  A mentally and emotionally abusive parent.  Now that protection has been removed and children will suffer greatly as a result.

Education and educational facilities are designed to broaden minds and experiences.  Education is designed to cause GROWTH and understanding. Not agreement.  But understanding.

An educational setting, even for an elementary school aged child, is designed to open up the world to the student.  A world that is full of different beliefs, opinions, and experiences.  What is the point otherwise?

Keep narrow-minded, discriminatory religious dogma in church and out of the schools.  Support transgender children. Open the aperture on this policy to protect transgender children, and every other child.


Fully Support Youngkin New Model Policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>Thank you for updating these policies to restore protections for basic parental rights and ensuring that parents are no longer cut out of the process—especially when it concerns how gender and sexuality issues are handled with our kids at school. No teacher would come close to the love and discernment of a parent to decide what is best for their child. </p>


I support Parents Rights and Gov Youngkin

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>My family supports our Governor and his plan. Teachers should not be allowed to encourage our children to become transgender without consent/input from their parents or guardians.  Our daughter should not be told that she was meant to be a boy just because she prefers not to dress like a typical pink princess. We should not have to worry about boys coming into the girls’ bathroom or locker rooms to prey on our daughters. I have personally had to deal with multiple sexual assaults in places that were supposed to be safe (both as a juvenile and as an adult). Why would you think it’s safe to allow children that were born a female to go into the male locker room and vice versa? I have personal friends that went back and forth with their sexuality for years. I do not feel children should be pressured by teachers to make those decisions when they are still developing and in some cases before they have even gone through puberty.  Bottom line children should be allowed to be kids without all this nonsense. If my kids decide that they want to be gay or transgender then so be it, but teachers should not be involved in that decision. We will love and support our children but we don’t want teachers or society trying to tell them that they are a boy just because they don’t dress like a little princess.  </p>


An Educator AGAINST this policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>As an educator, we need to keep schools a safe place for ALL students. This policy does not allow a safe space for ALL  students. There are problems in education we need to create an action plan for (i.e. gaps in achievement, discipline; and attendance). Let’s provide additional support and resources to ALL students and NOT take away any students’ rights. A learning environment, where students thrive, looks like a community if mutual respect and safety. If you implement this policy, you will take away the safe learning environment for all students, thus increasing gaps in achievement, discipline referrals for poor behaviors, and chronic absenteeism. </p>


I Strongly Oppose the 2022 Model Policy

<!DOCTYPE html>

My name is Evaline Mitchell, and I am a student at the University of Virginia. Policies like the Model 2022 Policy hurt transgender students. My best friend is transgender and is in high school living with his parents. This kind of policy would seriously affect his mental health and safety, especially because it would out him to his parents who are not likely to be accepting of his identity. According to the Trevor Project, "Transgender youth reported significantly increased rates of depression, suicidality, and victimization compared to their cisgender peers. Notably, in the past year, one in three transgender youth reported attempting suicide..." (2019) Transgender students are already at an increased risk. We have to protect them, not further harm them by outing them and subjecting them to intrusive policing of their bodies and expression, especially in school, a place that should be safe.

For these reasons, I ask you to repeal the 2022 Model Policies and reinstate the 2021 Model Policies.


I oppose this fully.


Thank you Governor Youngkin!

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>I am in full support of Governor Youngkin and proud that he’s stepping out on such a controversial topic to support parents and religious freedom. </p>


Oppose! This bill is insanity and will harm trans youth!

<!DOCTYPE html>

The consequences of not affirming a child’s gender identity can be severe, and it can interfere with their ability to develop and maintain healthy interpersonal relationships. In the school context, that distress will also hinder a transgender student’s focus in class and ability to learn. The longer a transgender youth is not affirmed, the more significant and long-lasting the negative consequences can become, including loss of interest in school, heightened risk for alcohol and drug use, poor mental health and suicide. -Gender Spectrum et al., 2015, Schools in Transition—A Guide for Supporting Transgender Students in K-12 Schools 8 (2015)


Trans rights matter

<!DOCTYPE html>

School policies that respect transgender students not only benefit transgender students, but also promote a positive school climate for all students. School climate—that is, the “product of the interpersonal relationships among students, families, teachers, support staff and administrators” that sets the “norms, values, and expectations that support people feeling socially, emotionally, and physically safe” in school—is a key predictor of student engagement, student mental and physical health, and academic achievement, and is positively correlated with decreased absenteeism, dropout rates, and suspensions


Children deserve privacy and dignity. I support Gov. Youngkin

<!DOCTYPE html>

All children in Virginia deserve privacy and dignity. Forcing students into changing rooms or bathrooms with students of different gender is not just or fair. I support Governor Youngkin’s policy changes. Thank you!


I strongly oppose

<!DOCTYPE html>

I strongly oppose this, trans and gender non-confirming students deserve the right to use the bathroom their choosing and to be addressed by their chosen pronouns. The 2022 model will cause harm to students and it is dangerous and discriminatory and should be rescinded. All students in the LGBTQIA+ community deserve support and protection at school.


I oppose this bill


Protect trans kids!

<!DOCTYPE html>

Trans kids deserve the same rights as we do. They're humans just like us. Let them be entitled to the same rights as what you consider "normal people" are. Stop dehumanizing these kids. This is exactly why suicide rates of trans people are so high.


This bill is garbage


OPPOSE

<!DOCTYPE html>

<p>I am in strong opposition of this document. Students should be given at least ONE space in their lives to be their authentic selves. For most students, this is at school. Do not take this decency away from students. </p>


Support Youngkin

<!DOCTYPE html>

I support the updated language acknowledging that students, teachers, and parents cannot be forced into compelled speech that violates their constitutional rights, including First Amendment and religious freedom protections. We are strong in our faith and while respecting others, my children and I will not go against our faith in order to make someone else comfortable. My children have rights also! God given rights!


Our rights are our rights no matter what!

<!DOCTYPE html>

These policies will affect our children immensely, mentally and for the rest of their lives.

They have the right to be themselves and be protected by our constitution no matter how they feel or see themselves as our founding fathers had intended.

Their rights are their rights no matter who they are or feel. We need to maintain the constant evolution of our beloved country and not going backwards.

We are a country that is known to move forward and set examples of how things should be done, let's continue on doing the right thing and not keep dividing what we have build so far.


Bigotry has no place in law

<!DOCTYPE html>

It has been shown that allowing students to use restrooms and locker rooms consistent with their gender identity is just one of a host of school policies that have been shown to improve the educational experiences of transgender, gender nonconforming, and cisgender students. In schools with policies that explicitly prohibit anti-LGBTQ bullying, students have better relationships with staff and as a result feel safer in the school. When transgender students are respected, they are able to engage fully and equitably with the educational experience, and when that happens, transgender students, like all students, are able to thrive


Fully support new model policy. Parents and families are our foundation and should not be undermined

<!DOCTYPE html>

Thank you, Governor Youngkin, for bringing parents and common sense back into the lives of school children. The proposed policy is not about hate or lack of support, it is in fact to allow parents (instead of school employees) to be their child’s greatest support. No matter the reason for a child to think they were “born wrong”, imagine how much more wrong and isolated they feel when they are told to block their parents out of this issue.  In reality, for most children, their parents are the only ones who truly want the best for the child. Everyone else has their own agenda and are just using the child to prop up their own view of reality, and what they think society should be.

The people who want to cut parents out purposely disassociate the victimized child from their family so that the child feels  more alone, vulnerable, isolated and shamed than ever. Then they (school or lgbtq supporters) swoop in “to the rescue” and give the child a “safe space.” These are children and are not old enough to make these life-altering decisions on their own, or with the “support” of others who are not family.  Many of these children are victims of activists and need their parents to help fight the battle for their souls

The activists use basically the same playbook that a domestic abuser uses to make his (or her) victim completely reliant on said abuser. They make escape impossible because they have completely undercut any other support system the victim may have had. What results for the victim is hopelessness and self-hate. I don’t think this is a burden any child should carry - it’s hard enough for adults to be victimized by abusers, imagine being an unwitting child with no hope of rescue by the family.

On a personal level, I have a teenage daughter and I don’t understand why it’s okay to trample her right to privacy and safety in locker rooms and bathrooms. I don’t understand why biological boys are allowed to participate on her sports teams. I don’t understand why it’s okay to trample her faith by expecting her to call someone by a pronoun that is not accurate.  We can’t understand why if It’s wrong to appropriate others’ race, why is it not wrong to appropriate the opposite sex, “womanhood” for instance?  In our family we don’t believe God makes mistakes. In our family, our children are a gift from God - they are not wards of the state, and they should not be treated as such. While our kids are at school they should be learning academics, not about sexuality or the social/political trend of the day, and not about how “mean” their parents are and how “bad” and “hateful” their faith and their country are.

It seems as if LGBTQ activists hate God, country, family and most of all, themselves. By driving a wedge between children and their parents, these activists give themselves power and at the same time, truly undermine our country, destroying it one family at a time. Thank you, Governor, for trying to rebuild our deteriorating foundation of values here in the Commonwealth of Virginia.


OPPOSE-Statement from Queer and Trans Social Workers @ VCU

Colleen, Queer and Trans Social Workers @ VCU

<!DOCTYPE html>

We are the Queer and Trans Social Workers at VCU, a student-led organization that focuses on uplifting queer and trans voices across campus and learning about the social work field. In our studies, we are taught that social work is a field in which social workers work with vulnerable populations, help communities through challenges, and organize people to fight for social change. With the proposed 2022 Model Policies, an already vulnerable population will be hurt and the trans community will be damaged. That is why we must speak out, as it is our duty as future social workers to stop these policies before they go into effect.

These policies were created, according to Gov. Youngkin’s administration, with the intention of helping children and creating a safe space where children will not be harassed or discriminated against based on their gender. However, with the Model Policies, and with the possibility of requiring teachers to report to parents if their child is going by a name other than their legal name, the administration is doing more harm than good. “Outing” a child (exposing a child’s gender identity and/or sexuality without the child’s knowledge or consent) harms the child irreparably. It takes away the chance for a child to come out on their own terms, forces children into a label, and is a violation of privacy. Forcing teachers to do so by informing the parent about the child’s chosen identity is both uncomfortable for the teacher and damaging for the child. Chosen identities are important to a child, as it gives them the chance to grow and learn more about themselves; this is their form of self-expression. To strip that away by forcing all three parties (child, teacher and parent) into an unnecessary and uncomfortable confrontation is demeaning to the child. In a study published by the National Library of Medicine, transgender children are more at risk of child abuse, with 73 percent of respondents stating that they were abused psychologically, and 39 percent stating that they were abused physically. By forcibly outing these children, their very well-being is at risk.

Trans people already face violence. According to the most recent U.S. Transgender Survey, nearly half of the respondents reported that they have experienced verbal harassment because they are transgender, and one in 10 respondents stated that they have been physically attacked because of their identity. Additionally, according to the CDC, trans children are more at risk of violence victimization. If the Youngkin administration chooses to follow through with these policies, it is  putting more trans children at risk by invalidating their experiences, forcibly outing them, and making an unsafe environment. The governor claimed in his campaign that, if elected, he would have the safest communities and have the best schools. However, that cannot happen if, as is evident with these policies, he is actively encouraging violence against trans youth. A child’s identity is something sacred, and must be disclosed on their terms and to whomever they want to tell; there is a reason why a trans child may keep their identity secret from their parent/guardian, and most likely it’s because they are not ready, or, they know harm will come to them because of their identity.

Forcing transgender kids to conform to the gender they were assigned is not only forcing these children into a box, but is also creating an environment in which students feel like their needs are not met. Forcing kids to do school activities based on their gender assigned at birth is discriminatory; in fact, it can also incite more risk of harassment and even violent behavior toward trans children in those sex-assigned spaces by other students. Imagine a child who has both physically and socially transitioned from a male to a female. If she is female-presenting, how would it look if she were to enter the men’s bathroom? There is a chance that harm could come to this person, simply because of her gender identity and the fact that she is not male-presenting in a male-dominated space. Similar situations like the one described will happen more frequently if these policies were to be put into effect. In a binary-dominated world, violence can and will happen simply because of a person’s identity; if this policy is put into effect, the rate of violence against transgender children will increase.

Speaking from a strictly legal standpoint, these policies violate Title IX. In 2021, the Department of Education stated that Title IX applies to discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. These policies are discriminatory, as they specifically target trans children; discriminating because of gender identity violates Title IX. A similar policy was passed through the legislative system of North Carolina in 2016; this policy went by the name “HB2.” HB2 was similar in the sense that both HB2 and the 2022 Model Policies restricted bathroom usage based on “biological sex,” rather than gender. Soon, North Carolina’s governor was sent a letter from the Department of Justice stating that HB2 was in violation of Title IX, and must therefore be amended. If the governor were to continue to put his policies into effect, there would be no doubt that he would receive a similar letter from the Department of Justice.

The Model Policies will not accommodate and ensure a high-quality education for all students in Virginia. These proposed policies target a marginalized group that has faced violence and harassment from many sources. It's not only their academic performance at risk, but their well-being. Parents and guardians should have some say on a child’s development, but having full control on a child’s beliefs and, most importantly, their chosen identity, should not be dictated by the parent. The 2022 Model isn’t going to protect children. The 2022 Model will harm children. Transphobic rhetoric and fear-mongering already have affected many trans individuals’ well-being.

Please take this letter seriously and listen to the people who will be impacted by the new policies. If the Youngkin administration cares about the well-being of students, then it should  reconsider these policies.

The Queer and Trans Social Workers of Virginia Commonwealth University


Leave trans kids alone

<!DOCTYPE html>

When transgender students are denied access to facilities that align with their gender identity, they often avoid participating in sports, gym and refrain from using the bathroom altogether. Bathroom avoidance is a common problem for transgender students and is linked to medical problems and diminished educational outcomes. For instance, in a 2013 study conducted by the Williams Institute, 54 percent of transgender respondents reported some sort of health problem related to bathroom avoidance, including dehydration, urinary tract infections, kidney infections and other kidney problems.


Stongly support Youngkin Administration policy document to protect rights of children and parents

<!DOCTYPE html>

I strongly support the new public school policy document that Governor Youngkin’s administration has proposed regarding sexuality and gender identification.  This policy document is absolutely necessary given the recent actions by counties such as Fairfax that have served to usurp the basic rights of parents to guide and protect their children – which rights are supported by the Fourteenth Amendment to the Constitution.  It is unthinkable that school teachers and staff members should be allowed to counsel minors on permanent, life-changing issues like choosing to identify as the opposite gender (from their biological and chromosomal identities) and/or chemically or surgically mutilate their bodies and worse yet, to do so in secret – i.e. without the parents’ knowledge or consent.  It is also unacceptable that teachers and students that do not agree with minors attempting to change their gender should be required to speak in support of such actions and thereby be deprived of their First Amendment rights.  Finally, I support the elimination of blanket policies that require that students that say they identify as the opposite gender be allowed to use boys or girls bathrooms and locker rooms as they please.  As the horrific case in Loudoun County has shown the whole country, such blanket policies can lead to disaster and the two girls who were raped by that boy will never be the same.  If a child, with his or her parents’ consent, chooses to identify as the opposite gender and still go to public school, there needs to be special, individual treatment of that case – possibly excusing the child from physical education classes and directing the use of private bathrooms.  But the fact is (according to long-term psychological data) that most minors that experience gender dysphoria, but do not undergo chemical or surgical treatments, decide that they are happier to live their adult lives according to their biological/chromosomal identities.

Please implement the draft policy document without any changes!  Thank you.

Harry Kinney, Jr.


I strongly oppose this bill


Strongly Support!


You cant legislate trans people away


<!DOCTYPE html>

I support the new 2022 model policies for Virginia's public schools. It is time we stopped the damage that the 2021 model policies have been causing to our children’s well-being and to their families.


Bigotry has no place in law

<!DOCTYPE html>

Students will not be the only ones harmed by the proposed guidance. Too often educators are required to enforce needlessly discriminatory policies by those who lack direct contact or relationships with the students and parents harmed by such policies. Policies that segregate transgender students their peers are not self-executing: they compel individual administrators, educators, and other public school employees to carry them out. Educators suffer both professional and psychological harms when they are forced to watch, and participate in, the stigmatization and degradation that discriminatory policies inflict on children.


I absolutely endorse these guidelines.

<!DOCTYPE html>

These are common sense measures which show compassion to the children who are struggling with gender dysphoria by providing private facilities for them while still protecting the privacy rights of the remainder of the children in school. Many children avoid the bathroom for an entire 7-8 hour day to avoid the possibility of 'peeping toms' or assault in the high school bathrooms.  This is unconscionable to subject children to a situation where they feel unsafe to use the restroom.

Additionally, we must protect our young ladies' abilities to excel on the field and in the swimming pool.  They should not be forced to compete against teenage males who have much greater lung capacity, muscle mass and athletic potential. Allowing trans athletes to compete against our girls undermines all we have achieved for female sports in the past 50 years.

Additionally, we must protect parents' rights.  Parents have borne these children, raised them, love them more than anyone else in the world, AND desire to see their children flourish in life.  If the children are struggling with gender dysphoria, they need their parents to come alongside them and help search for the underlying emotional causes affecting their child.  Hiding the inner turmoil from the adults who love them most is harmful to the children and undermines the family connection.  If parents have a tough time understanding, let's provide counseling and therapy for the entire family.

And finally, we need to be medically and scientifically honest. Gender transition treatments, puberty blockers, cross-sex hormones and transitional surgery are dangerous and harmful. We can't change the biologic reality of having XX and XY chromosomes in every cell of our bodies. Trans activists need to stop pretending that this is a game; we are talking about children, chiefly we are talking about other people's children.  They are lying to the children, saying they can transform reality, and they are also encouraging children to lie to their parents. They need to stop.