I strongly oppose this proposed policy

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The right of a parent to raise their child is not absolute and in fact can and should be outweighed by the child's best interest. It's not acceptable for parents to withhold diabetes medication from a diabetic child and it's likewise not acceptable for parents to psychologically harm their LGBTQ+ children by failing to acknowledge the child's lived experience as a gay or trans person. Schools are often the only safe place for kids who are bullied and abused at home due to being gay or trans. It's insulting and an outright lie for politicians in this state to claim that teachers and other school personnel are "grooming" kids and that it is the teachers/school personnel who are convincing kids that they are gay or trans. No wonder this state has trouble recruiting qualified teachers. So, this proposed action is 1) not in line with the actual law as to the limits on parental rights 2) certain to harm children and 3) not based in fact with respect to how LGBTQ+ people come to understand their sexuality and their gender, 4) not at all consistent with the teachings of Christianity or any other religion. I am a registered voter in Virginia and I vote in every single election.


Oppose these dangerous and harmful model policies

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I vehemently oppose these policies and the harmful and dangerous impact their implementation would have on trans and non-binary students.


These guidelines could harm the youth of Virginia

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Medical experts that work with the LGBTQ community don’t support these moves, nor should anyone who says they want the best for the children of Virginia.   Children should be allowed to be themselves and not have to hide who they are - and the rest of us can just mind our own business.   No one has been harmed by the current standards - they should

be left in place.


This is a terrible policy decision.

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This is a terrible policy decision.


I oppose the anti-trans policy proposed by the Youngkin Administration

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<p>This policy is harmful for a population that is already so vulnerable. Trans people face so many hurdles, from bullying to mental health, and this policy will make things worse for them. As a parent of a Virginia public high school student, I implore you to represent my views. Please do not adopt Youngkin’s Virginia Department of Education draft model policy. </p>


I strongly oppose the model policy regarding transgender students

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Why on earth would you propose to harm children but protect homophobia!!! This is WRONG


Do not revise the existing 2021 document model.

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As an LGBTQ teacher, I was so pleased with the 2021 model policy. It showed kindness, inclusivity, and compassion to a population of students who are most likely to experience homelessness, social and societal disadvantages, and grapel with emotional health issues due to systemic pressures. The existing policy was inclusive. As a LGBTQ teacher, I saw how the changes in policy freed students to be themselves at school. Students opened up, blossomed, and made social-emotional gains. It has been lovely to have the freedom to openly support them. I strongly oppose Youngkin’s revisions. We need to support *all* arental rights, including parents of LGBTQ students. Students themselves also need to have equitable representation and voice.


This is a terrible policy decision.


I am completely opposed.

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I am completely opposed.


I fully oppose this.


Strongly Oppose -- this policy will harm trans children and does not serve families

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<p>I strongly oppose this proposed policy.  It will cause great harm and anxiety to transgender youth.  An inclusive environment conducive to learning requires respect for students and a trusting relationship between students and faculty and counselors.  </p>


Strongly oppose.


It is a grave mistake to pass this.

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It is a grave mistake to pass this.


100% Oppose

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<p>You cannot support people and students and pick and choose who you are going support and protect. Every child means every single child! </p>


It is a grave mistake to pass this.


Oppose

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I strongly oppose these harmful policies, which will have negative impacts on the safety of Virginia’s youth.


STRONGLY OPPOSE

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I strongly oppose this action.  It serves to harm some of our most vulnerable students.  Every student, whether 5 or 18, deserves to be called by their chosen name.  This action is a draconian step backwards and lacks basic compassion.


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I oppose this in the strongest possible manor.


Guidance pertaining to school boards

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Children are given to parents to raise and the schools do not have the right to teach those children anything pertaining to sexual orientation. Thank you Governor Youngkin.


I fully oppose this terrible, evil idea

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<p>I am beyond horrified that the great Commonwealth of Virginia would even be considering this harmful, hateful policy. I oppose this with every ounce of my being. Children will die. Families will be harmed beyond repair. There is no excuse or rationale for inflicting this policy on our school systems other than to purposely harm LGBTQ families and appeal to a narrow minded and bigoted voter base. </p>


Don’t live in fear and hate

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Please stop approaching kids from a place of fear or hatred if they happen to look or act “different” than other kids.  Embrace them with love.  Appreciate their uniqueness and bravery and courage.  Stop being so small-minded and mean-spirited.  We are better than this.  Thank you.


Student Transgender policies

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I support this policy as a mother, grandmother and educator. Thank you Governor Youngin for your common sense and for standing up for parents rights.


I am strongly opposed.


I am completely opposed.


I support trans youth

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<p>Governor Youngkin's model programs will harm children, their families and school personnel. We need to move forward, not back. </p>


This is a terrible policy decision.


Reconsider enacting this policy

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The proposed policy would set a dangerous precedent for our transgender youth. The formative years of a human's life can be confusing and scary. If you add the layer of questioning your gender identity into that mix, it makes the experience even more confusing. LGBTQ+ youth, and specifically transgender youth who do not have a safe space to talk about what they are experiencing, will often become depressed and suicidal. Oftentimes that safe space is a classmate, teacher, coach, or school leader. While I believe in parental rights, I also know from experience that families aren't always the first safe space for LGBTQ+ youth. It would be harmful to expect teachers to "out" transgender students to their families before they themselves are ready to have that hard and emotional conversation. Please reconsider enacting this model policy.


Will significantly harm young trans community

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<p>This legislation has no basis in any sort of logical ideas. It accomplishes nothing except for stripping the identities of those kids who had to fight so hard for them. </p>


This is a terrible policy decision.

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This is a terrible policy decision.


I strongly oppose this harmful, hateful proposed policy

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It's important to call this policy out for what it is. A cynical, hateful attempt to impose a traditional notion of gender on everyone regardless of their gender identity and, I fear, a purposeful attempt to whip up right wing populist animus on the backs of vulnerable children, who may or may not have the support of their families.

All you need to do is look at the number, speed, and intensity of responses here. The governor knew what he was doing , he knew it would get a strong reaction, though I'm not sure anyone predicted this much of one. Already you see people telling parents that their children are a gift from god, that children "belong" to parents, and expressing views that expose the fact that they either can't comprehend or do not care that not all children adhere to the cisgender "norm"/may not experience a safe home environment if they that traditional gender identity. If I were a child impacted by this policy, I would be terrified of what I am seeing form those who would seek to deny what I was, and that's tragic

That said, I can only speak to all of this indirectly. I'm a cisgender adult male, but that doesn't mean that it's not important to have empathy for those that are not. I have come to form friendships with multiple transgender/nonbinary people, including among the people closest to me, which gives me some degree of insight, but I can't pretend to understand the pain and fear that can come with being forcibly outed to a family that may not react in a safe, loving way.

I will keep things broad, because the stories I have to tell are not my own, and I wish to respect privacy, but suffice to say there are families and environments that are safe, and those that are unsafe, and I've heard more than one account of children not feeling safe telling parents, and some cases where parents did find out, only to be met with harmful, cold, angry, dangerous reactions.

I've been a safe space for more than one person. School may well be a safe space for many children in Virginia (and elsewhere). It would be unambiguously harmful and bad to threaten such a safe harbor all in the name of "parents' rights." It is not an exaggeration to say that lives are at stake. If you don't believe me, you don't understand the risk of suicide in the community.

That said, that isn't the only thing at stake. Mental health, a support network, and just being allowed to be the person you are all have incredible value, as much as I wish I didn't have to point that out to people.

Parents can try to assert whatever rights they want, I guess, but all the assertion in the world won't make their kids cisgender if they are not, and taking away a safe space will not "fix" a trans/non-binary/ child with another gender identity, because there is nothing to "fix".

That's what this is all about. Parents and transphobic people that think they can make any child "normal", versus those just looking to preserve a small safe harbor in an often terrifying world.

This shouldn't be up for debate. I shouldn't have to write this comment. This should be basic.  What are we even doing here?


This will bring harm to trans kids.

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This will bring harm to trans kids.


This is wrong

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It is as if the Governor wants children to continue to be raised to repress their true selves, set children up to be bullied/abused/harassed and have long-lasting mental health issues. This proposed change is not a policy that is friendly to all.


Fully support

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Thank you, Governor for protecting our children


Do not do this.


I fully oppose this.


Strongly oppose this misguided and harmful policy

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<p>I very strongly oppose the proposed rules on transgender children that Governor Youngkin is championing. These rules are nothing but a smokescreen designed to enable hate and discrimination under the guise of “parental rights.”  I am the parent of two cisgender children who will not be personally impacted by these rules. But, they have classmates and friends who will be greatly harmed if not allowed to live as their authentic selves at school. My children and their friends are open and accepting and have absolutely no issue with their transgender and non-binary classmates. It is the adults who are creating problems where none exist. The harm of these rules will be irreparable. The rate of suicide among transgender youth who are not accepted by their families and communities is far too high. But, when they are accepted, transgender youth flourish and thrive just as their cisgender peers. There was a nothing to gain from sowing these seeds of fear and hatred, and everything to gain from simply letting people live their lives. Parental rights should include the rights of parents to support their transgender children and to ask for the same support a  school. </p>


I oppose this fully.


I strongly oppose this proposal

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If this proposal is approved, great harm will come to the children of Virginia, and their autonomy will be almost completely revoked.


Strongly oppose.


Strongly oppose

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<p>I strongly oppose this bigoted document. Trans kids should be afforded the same dignity as any other person in school and have the right to use the pronouns they choose and the facilities they choose. </p>


Strongly oppose this policy


This will bring harm to trans kids.


100% Support

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It is the family's responsibility to raise our children not the government.  Let educator's educate!


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I oppose this in the strongest possible manor.


I strongly oppose

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<p>I strongly oppose </p>


I am strongly opposed.


Fully Support!!

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I fully support this. Thank you for standing up to the woke agenda hurting our children!!


Excellent Policy with supporting rationale and legal guidance

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Thank you to the Youngkin administration for a rational policy that protects the  rights of parents in this sensitive area. Parents need to be informed and involved in decision making regarding their transgender student. School personnel should not have exclusive power in this area.
I fully support the direction and guidance this policy brings to the school setting.


Fully Support!!


It is a grave mistake to pass this.

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It is a grave mistake to pass this.


This hurts children, and some will die.

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The governor recently offered this advice to trans kids whose parents reject their identity: “Trust your parents.” This alone should disqualify him from fatherhood, much less political leadership. I’m glad he’s lived a charmed existence in loving homes - but to be governor for all Virginians means understanding citizens of the Commonwealth who do not enjoy your privilege. Good policy relies on data, and the data here are clear: trans youth suffer depression and suicidal ideation because they live in a society that doesn’t accept them as fully human. There are many parents who cannot be trusted. I wish it were not so, but I also trust those who endure have a friend in the commons. You violate that trust.

I understand that dehumanizing the different is a core belief for the GOP today, but that doesn’t mean we have to accept it. Governor: you lied about CRT and abused the unrepresented to win office, but you can still stand in favor of freedom for those you don’t personally understand. Anything less is a pursuit of power with no regard for leadership.

This policy isn’t about parental rights. It’s about demonizing the marginalized to win points with the faux Christians who tune in to Fox News for their fear fix every evening.

 “He will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me.’“


School Transgender Policy Abominations

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This policy is obviously discriminatory and again confirms the ignorance of our current governor as he places these children in harm's way.


I fully oppose this.


Let people be who they want to be.

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Freedom is being striped for individuals because a certain group / politicians think it is a winning issue. These are real people and they should not be targeted because they are different. History has shown us that singling out groups of people because they are different or because you don’t like them is unAmerican and just flat out hateful.

I do not support anything that is targeting people that are choosing to live their life in a manner that a small portion of society is uncomfortable with. Ask yourself, how is this impacting my life? We need more tolerance and understanding.


STRONGLY OPPOSE. To deny a child’s humanity is to deny Christ.

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Dear Governor Youngkin and Virginia Department of Education,

I am writing in vehement opposition to the proposed revision of the Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students. It places an arbitrary obstacle to learning in the path of a fair and accessible education to which every child in Virginia public schools is entitled. This codifies discrimination of a population who have a right to legal protection because they are minors until age 18 and obligated to attend school.

If a true Christian believes this of children: “See that you do not despise one of these little ones. For I tell you that in heaven their angels always see the face of my Father who is in heaven.” (Matthew 18:10); taking this bigoted action in the state of Virginia is to deny Christ’s call to heed His commandment to “Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” (John 13:34).

A true Christian knows that every single life is valuable from conception until natural death, but this calculated effort to deny a child the right to exist and learn free from discrimination and retribution is the work of Satan. Only Lucifer himself would plant the seed of hate and harden the hearts of publicly elected leaders who are abdicating their duty to serve all Virginians and doggedly justify this prejudice.

A true Christian that knows the consequences of this intolerant action yet exercises the free will to support it invites the wrath of God.

For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you made me welcome, lacking clothes and you clothed me, sick and you visited me, in prison and you came to see me." Then the upright will say to him in reply, "Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink? When did we see you a stranger and make you welcome, lacking clothes and clothe you? When did we find you sick or in prison and go to see you?" And the King will answer, "In truth I tell you, in so far as you did this to one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did it to me." Then he will say to those on his left hand, "Go away from me, with your curse upon you, to the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. For I was hungry and you never gave me food, I was thirsty and you never gave me anything to drink, I was a stranger and you never made me welcome, lacking clothes and you never clothed me, sick and in prison and you never visited me." Then it will be their turn to ask, "Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty, a stranger or lacking clothes, sick or in prison, and did not come to your help?" Then he will answer, "In truth I tell you, in so far as you neglected to do this to one of the least of these, you neglected to do it to me." And they will go away to eternal punishment, and the upright to eternal life.' (Matthew 25:35-46).

This proposed revision MUST NOT PASS.

Signed,

A Christian


I oppose this in the strongest possible manor.


I strongly oppose your bigotry.

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<p>You have more important things to be worried about than someone’s pronouns. </p>


This will bring harm to trans kids.

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This will bring harm to trans kids.


Thank you Governor

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<p>Thank you, Governor, for taking a stand for truth! To deny biology is a mental health issue, and these children must not be coddled, but lovingly guided to get to the real root of their issues so they can accept and thrive in reality. XX and XY cannot be changed no matter what children want to be called or how so-called physicians mutilate their bodies. Hugs to anyone experiencing gender dysphoria. Much like anorexia, bulimia, those who think they are cats, ponies, and other mental health issues, there is always hope and healing. </p>


Proposed policy will result in increased suicides and abuse

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<p>Making students in our public schools afraid of public outing and allowing teachers to misname students sends the message that these students are alone and not valued. The inevitable consequence will be increases in self-harm and drug abuse. All this so a politician can score points with a deranged constituency. </p>


This is a terrible policy decision.

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This is a terrible policy decision.


I am completely opposed.

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I am completely opposed.


Fully oppose

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<p>I fully oppose this policy. All students deserve to feel safe and respected in our schools, including trans, non-binary and LGBTQ students. </p>


I oppose this fully.


I completely oppose this harmful policy.


Do not do this.


Completely support this policy

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I completely support this policy. Thank you for restoring parental rights


It is a grave mistake to pass this.


Opposed

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Trans students deserve the same rights as other students. No one but bigot religious zealots are trying to indoctrinate students.


I am strongly opposed.


I am completely opposed.


Strongly oppose your new policy!

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This is just wrong and a step 60 years in the wrong direction!


Opposed - Please do not make changes to the existing model policy

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I am opposed to the proposed changes to the model policy. As a parent and educator, I am appalled that you would ignore the existing research that has already been well established that led to the initial policy changes in the first place to protect students. VDOE have an obligation to provide a safe and inclusive learning environment for ALL students in VA and right now with these proposed changes you are purposefully putting vulnerable students in harm's way. Please do NOT make any changes to the existing policy.


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I oppose this in the strongest possible manor.


I fully oppose this.


This policy is absurdly evil

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This policy completely disregards the safety of trans kids and puts them in a situation where they can be abused by their parents. All people in favor of human rights should oppose this incredibly predatory bill. The worst possible way to “help” trans kids is to out them to unaccepting family.


This will bring harm to trans kids.


Don't rollback 2021 Model Policies

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Please do not roll back 2021 Model Policies. There must be a way to come together to support the rights of parents AND create safe environments at schools for transgender students. Governor Youngkin, if you don't feel the the 2021 policies don't protect parental rights enough, you should leave the 2021 Model Policies in place, create a short-term commission comprised of independent educational and child-development experts to draft a new policy that puts protecting transgender children at its forefront.

I'm a voting parent and I want to be proud to live in a Commonwealth that protects children.


Strongly oppose.


Against

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I am against this change. I cannot imagine a more cruel action towards the children of Virginia. It sends an awful message; the government claiming to know better than students  who they are, and they will make it difficult to be who you are. Students and their parents know can determine for themselves how to live their loves without the interference of the Commonwealth, the government, or their schools. It is an embarrassment that this is even being discussed in Virginia. Ashamed.


Strongly Oppose

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Institutionalized cruelty


support this

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I fully support this new policy


Do not do this.


I Strongly Oppose

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<p>I oppose these proposed changes. They do not create school environments that are welcoming and inclusive of all students. It will put the lives of young people at risk, especially trans kids. </p>


Vehemently Opposed

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I oppose this measure and believe this to be a major setback in ensuring a safe and supportive environment for students.


100% Support

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Schools should not be allowed to keep secrets from parents. Girls should always be protected. These common sense policies are long overdue. Advocating for trans kids should not come at the expense of girls.


You will kill children with this policy- Full Stop

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While we would like to think that all parents love their kids in unconditionally and would always do the best by them, that is not always the case, especially when hateful religious beliefs trump science in some homes. A school should be a safe space for all, not a place where teachers are forced to endanger their students by outting them to their parents. This policy will lead to the death of children, either by suicide or on the streets when they are thrown out for simply being who they are. You are killing children who are in most need of protection & support at school.  Trans kids have rights too, and you are denying them their basic right to survive.

CommentID: 138465


This ridiculous policy will have tragic consequences

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<p>This policy would cause irreparable harm to trans and LGBTQ kids. Why are you trying to hurt already vulnerable children in schools? You try and lean back on “parents’ rights” but why do you allow the rights of only some parents to matter and to hurt children that aren’t even their own? You are leading our great commonwealth into ugly, cruel places just to further your own political aspirations at the expense of children. Do not do this. </p>


I oppose this fully.


I STRONGLY OPPOSE THIS PROPOSED POLICY!!

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I strongly oppose this proposed policy.  This proposal would create a hostile and potentially dangerous school environment for our VA transgender and nonbinary youth, requiring teachers and staff to forcibly “out” students, prohibit staff from supporting trans and nonbinary students such as using a students affirming name and pronouns, and prohibit access or participation in activities consistent with their gender identity.  All our students deserve a supportive and affirming school environment, especially our vulnerable and marginalized populations like our transgender and nonbinary youth.


Strongly Oppose

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<p>As a former student in VA, I strongly oppose this change. Schools should and can be a safe space for students to express themselves and explore different parts of their identity - especially if that feels unsafe at home. Teachers are there to support and care for their students and putting them in a position to have to "out" their students to parents/guardians/anyone is unfair and unsafe. Allow students the right to come out if, and when they are ready and on the terms that feel safest to them. Protect students and trust them to make decisions that are best for them. </p>


This will bring harm to trans kids.

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This will bring harm to trans kids.


I fully oppose this.


Incredibly opposed.

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<p>This is going to lead to mistreatment of some of our most vulnerable youth. This is not going to help anyone, and it will endanger queer and transgender kids, who already suffer from high rates of suicide and self-harm (which is proven to be lowered when they are free to be referred to how they wish to be referred to.) This is a horrific step backwards. </p>


I oppose this in the strongest possible manor.


It is a grave mistake to pass this.

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It is a grave mistake to pass this.


Strongly OPPOSE the guidance!

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<p>I am currently enrolled in a masters program to become a middle school science teacher and student teaching for the entire 2022-23 school year. I strongly oppose the draft policy that would reverse the evidence-based best practice trans-inclusive policies that are currently in place. As a current and future educator I will not comply if these proposed policies are enacted. I will not let the law force me to harm my students. Trans and nonbinary students deserve to be their whole selves at school. This change in policy would discriminate against students and put them at higher risk of harm. Schools should be a safe place for students where they can learn and thrive no matter where they are. Please reject this hateful draft policy! </p>


Terrible idea

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<p>Why? What is the purpose other than to hurt the most vulnerable kids. It’s mean and wrong. It will hurt kids. What if they have abusive parents at home and this policy “outs” them to their parents and the kids get physically and emotionally abused bc of it? Y’all can sleep at night with that knowledge? This is not how Virginia helps our kids-  as a proud born & bred Virginian. </p>


Thank you Governor Youngkin

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Unfortunately the schools have introduced complex concepts to children who are  Too young to be exposed to the ideas in my opinion. It is removing a families prerogative to address these concepts when parents feel the time is right and ultimately robs these children of their innocence and youth which is precious and so very finite as it is. These kids are being unduly influenced and the parents are left to try and navigate conversations after the fact and often painted to look like the "bad guys" if they oppose any of the concepts being pushed by the school system. It is disheartening to say the least.

Your policies are a moat welcome reprieve from the constant barrage and feels like we parents who feel our values are being undercut finally have a voice. Please continue to stick up for those of us whose views may differ from those being pushed currently in the face of such hostility at times. All we have ever asked is to be allowed to drive these very important conversations with OUR children and to expect the schools to focus on education. It is the family's responsibility to raise our children NOT the state's. Thank you again Governor. We are proud of your leadership and support you and your policies 110%

Very Sincerely,

Robert Brunell


This is a terrible policy decision.

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This is a terrible policy decision.


None of your business

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Leave transgender people alone. Mind your own business. These people are going to become depressed and may try to kill themselves.  Jerk.


This will bring harm to trans kids.


Strongly oppose.


This is big government authoritarianism

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<p>The government has no right to tell people what pronouns they have to use. You kin is a big government authoritarian.  </p>


Do not do this.


You CANNOT Do This to Virginia's Kids

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How on earth these restrictions were allowed, I will never know. This is a disgusting, vile, and inhumane act. There is absolutely nothing wrong with letting people live their lives the way they want to. For students to not be able to express themselves at school is despicable. For Governor Youngkin to believe that this is the right thing to do is a decision he will never be able to repair. If Governor Youngkin ever reads this, then you should know that there is nothing you can do to repair the damage done. You are ruining these children's lives. For someone who ran preaching that he would be a Governor for all Virginians, he has ignored what is perhaps Virginia's most important group: its youth. How can you tell a child that it is not okay to be themselves during perhaps the most impressionable years of their life?

Every single thing about these restrictions is wrong. Members of the LGBTQIA+ community already go through so much, so to put them through this too, is horrifying. I sincerely hope that this weighs on you for the rest of your life, Governor Youngkin, as I can promise you that it will for these children.


I strongly support Governor Youngkin's support of parental rights

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Governor Youngkin has shown a great concern for the rights and welfare of all students and their parents. I strongly support these documents.


I oppose this fully.


I am strongly opposed.


Youngkins terrible trans bill

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<p>This is a horrible policy that will harm students! </p>


I am completely opposed.

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I am completely opposed.


I support this move

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<p>The issue of how to address children who are unhappy with their biological sex will continue to dog our educators and families. This is a serious mental health issue and treatment for this issue should be addressed by parents and their doctors, not educators. Our education system should focus on addressing each student with respect and ensuring that parents and student civil rights are honored. </p>


I adamantly oppose this

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<p>I adamantly oppose this legislation. Children’s mental health is at stake here. Feeling safe and being seen for who you are as person is important to mental health. Don’t let this happen. </p>


I am completely opposed.


Parental Rights

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<p>Parents elected Governor Youngkin to protect our rights and we fully expect and support the new guidelines. </p>


I fully oppose this.


This is a terrible policy decision.


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I oppose this in the strongest possible manor.


Support - parental rights are important too!

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<p>I fully support this policy  because parental rights are important too. Parents have a right to know if their kids are having identity issues. </p>


Trans students deserve a safe education

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“LGBTQ youth who report having at least one accepting adult were 40% less likely to report a suicide attempt in the past year”

https://www.thetrevorproject.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Trevor-Project-Accepting-Adult-Research-Brief_June-2019.pdf


Dept of Education new guidelines

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These proposed guidelines are very damaging to transgender and binary students; I am completely opposed.


Strongly oppose.


Support


Support the Proposal

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<p>These kids need help not more confusion. </p>


Trans gender youth proposal

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<p>I am complete against this proposal.  </p>


It is a grave mistake to pass this.

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It is a grave mistake to pass this.


Strongly oppose!


I oppose this fully.


Protect Trans Youth

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<p>Many children don't feel safe at home to tell their parents they are trans or non-binary. It is not in a child's best interests for a school to Out them to their parents. </p>
<p> </p>


This is a terrible policy decision.

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This is a terrible policy decision.


I am completely opposed.


Protect trans kids!

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I oppose this transphobic legislation.


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Fully support try he policy by Youngkin!


Thank goodness for the students! Remember they are our future and will be able to vote soon!

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We are not Florida, Desantis, is harming all LGBT students, and teachers who are prevented from using gender words, etc. Youngkin, you were voted in as a moderate republican, but you have been showing your true colors and intentions. Virginians will vote you out as soon as they can. Stop this ridiculous attack on our students and teachers. A big thank you to the students for organizing this walkout! I fully support them.


I oppose this in the strongest possible manor.


Do not do this.


I vehemently oppose

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<p>I vehemently oppose </p>


I strongly oppose these policies.

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<p>I am a bisexual black female. I came out to my parents only to be met with that I was greedy. I was mocked by classmates and ridiculed by my administration as a whole. Not just me though, thousands of students are in the same situation. These policies would crumble the already faulty protection for transgender and queer students. These policies will kill trans and queer youth. </p>


I am completely opposed.

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I am completely opposed.


Strongly Oppose These Policies

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<p>These proposed model policies are contrary to state law and will be extremely harmful to transgender and nonbinary kids, not to mention the additional burden they would place on Virginia teachers who are already some of the most underpaid in the country. The administration should be working to support Virginians, not cause more harm as this policy would to all involved. </p>


It is a grave mistake to pass this.


Why would harassment off students be school board policy?

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Deadnaming and misgendering are across of aggression and harassment. It's also a violation to not allow students to use the restroom facilities for their gender identity and not to allow them to play sports with other children of their gender.


Strongly oppose.


Stop harming trans kids

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<p>Stop persecuting and harming trans kids. Do you WANT more of them to attempt suicide? Because it certainly seems like y’all are just trying to kill as many trans people as you can. It is not okay and I’m appalled that I have to say it. </p>


Not representative of the values of the commonwealth

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While you may feel this represents the values of parents in the commonwealth, you fail to acknowledge those students and families who will be affected in a negative way. It is more important to protect students who are most vulnerable than it is to pander to conservative parents. Please reconsider.


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I oppose this in the strongest possible manor.


I fully oppose this.


I am strongly opposed.


You will be responsible for deaths

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Youngkling,

I am deeply concerned about asinine this policy. I am a mental health therapist who treats lgbtqia+ youth and you are causing them harm. In no uncertain terms, youth will experience pain and escalating mental illness symptoms because of you. Period. 100%.
These kids need support and not judgement, life is hard enough. It makes me so sad that you, and people like you, can’t see the humanity  in these children. Probably because you are monsters.
Shame on you. I wish you the absolute worst. Sincerely. The worst.

Go to hell,

Emily


Stop bullying trans kids

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You are the actual worst. I saw an article a while back called “The Cruelty is the Point” and I mean…if this anti-trans policy it isn’t about sadism and/or psychopathy for you, how is it possible that the political incentives in our system have convinced you that groping children (because that’s literally how these ed up policies are enforced) is a moral, good policy to implement?

FFS, let everyone, and particularly children, pee in peace. Stop bullying children. You sick s.

…but also…I’m trying to understand your rationale here. You’re so convinced that assaulting people in bathrooms is a thing that people do (wtf are you doing/thinking?) and that it’s a thing that children would do so we need to make sure that only people/children of the same gender use the restrooms (…which frankly confuses me too because aren’t you all super homophobic bigots to boot? I mean if you think gay people are horrible how does only using the same gender bathroom help?) that what we need to do is grope people as they’re trying to use the bathroom to confirm their gender (again, seriously who is the pervert here cuz wtF is wrong with you).

You all are so terrible, I’m literally leaving the country. Because I just can’t anymore.

And frankly, the karma I wish for you is that you come to truly, deeply understand the harm your policies are causing. For you, I wish empathy. I hope you feel the pain of everyone you are harming, soul-deep.

And though I doubt it will be, I hope it’s not too late.


This is a terrible policy decision.


Strongly oppose this hateful policy

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<p>As an educator of almost 20 years, I value the relationships developed with students and their families. I will work diligently to help students communicate with families, but I will NOT out students who are not ready or who do not feel safe. That’s not my place as an educator. I have also always referred to students by their preferred names and nicknames and I won’t stop now. I will always use a student’s preferred pronouns as I care deeply about their sense of belonging to their school community and safety in my classrooms. This belonging and safety will always supersede a policy geared towards discrimination and hate.  VA cannot afford to lose good educators and good educators care about the well being of ALL children. </p>


I disapprove.

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<p>I strongly disapprove. This will only harm trans students. </p>


Support the new model granting parents rights to make decisions for their children

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<p>I support respect Parents rights to make decisions with respect to their children and not the Commonwealth of Virginia.  If a parent chooses to relinquish this right, that should always be the best option.  As a parent, I do not support indoctrination of our child but do support educating them.  We feel like we have a great relationship with the school where our child attends.  That said, we are seeing subtle forms of indoctrination on topics that are tied to sex.  This indoctrination is showing up in all subjects and we have voiced our opposition to this at school board meetings.  We are pleased to see that the Commonwealth of Virginia Department of Education has provided a new 2022 Model Policies to provide clear, accurate, and useful guidance to Virginia school boards that align with statutory provisions (Code of Virginia, § 22.1-23.3 or the “Act”).  We think this is way overdue and puts decisions regarding a child back into the hands of parents. </p>


I am completely opposed.


Opposed wholeheartedly

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I am firmly opposed to the model policy as it is written. It hides behind language that on surface level makes it sound inclusive. “Schools shall respect parents’ values and beliefs.” However, if I as a parent, in consult with my child’s medical providers, teachers, etc, believe that it is in my child’s best interest to be addressed by the pronoun and name they wish to be called, it is clear that my beliefs and values will not be honored. These model policies favor one very specific set of “values and beliefs”. A set of values and beliefs founded in misinformation, fear, and narrow-minded, hard-hearted views of a group of people who are already treated as second class citizens. What gives another teacher or parent or student the right to misgender my child because of “values”? Even my third grader understands that when someone introduces themselves to you by a name and pronoun, you use it. End of discussion. Your “values” need not apply here.

Furthermore, I would be curious who these “many Virginians” are who agree with reducing protection for transgender, non-binary, and queer youth. As far as I can tell, in my community there is a much larger group of us who believe in treating others with respect, unconditionally. If these model policies move forward, history will look unkindly on all of us.


Do not do this.


Protect Trans Studients

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I oppose rolling back the 2021 guidance. It is hard to fit in, even for the most normal child. When most people think back to middle and high school, few remember feeling comfortable and "popular." In fact, most of the popular people I grew up with later admitted that they felt just as awkward and unsure as I did. For Trans kids, this is even more difficult. According to statistics sited by the conservative Republican governor of Utah (Spencer Cox), 86% of trans kids report thoughts of suicide. This is because they are made to feel like they don't fit in, even when they are only trying to find community and have the same experiences, for good or bad, that the majority of non-trans kids take for granted. There are so few trans kids, and so much fear and distrust of such a small population. Please do not rollback guidance that attempts to help them feel normal and accepted. Bravery is standing up for the weak, good people trying to live their lives with dignity even when they know they are different. Bravery is NOT alienating them and pushing them further away from being part of a community.

I strongly oppose rolling back the 2021 guidance.


It is a grave mistake to pass this.

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It is a grave mistake to pass this.


Strongly oppose

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If VA passes this small-minded, bigoted bill, we will no longer spend our money in your beautiful state, nor any more time than is absolutely necessary to care for family. And we will strongly encourage them to move to a state with a better understandable ng of what it means to be decent to all.


Strongly oppose.


Strongly oppose the proposed rule

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While one hopes that parents would always be supportive of their gender fluid or transgender child, and this, such a rule would not be harmful to the child, that is tragically not the case in today’s society.  Shockingly high numbers of transgender individuals contemplate or take steps to end their lives, in no small part due to disapproval from those in their communities and their own families.  Rules such as these will only serve to further closer gender fluid and transgender children.  Such rules will only further alienate those that need acceptance and affirmance the most.  I strongly urge you to reject the proposed rules.


Strongly Oppose

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I'm a teacher and I have trans and nonbinary students.  All kids need support.


100% Support Governor


It is a grave mistake to pass this.


This is a terrible policy decision.

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This is a terrible policy decision.


Transgender students

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<p>I strongly agree.   I don't want to give one person a right.   while taking away the rights of the massive.   Parents are responsible for children until the age of 18.  So they should be advised.  </p>


I am strongly opposed.


Transgender rights .

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I am opposed to this cynical pandering to groundless fears


I strongly oppose this

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<p>I strongly oppose this. It will further oppress Trans Youth, one of the most oppressed groups in our country. While I live in a different state, I have many coworkers who live in VA and are outraged at this proposal. Please don't use Trans Youth as pawns in political dealings. </p>


Oppose this policy

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It’s unsurprising that Gov. Youngkin’s incompetent administration would choose to willingly misinterpret the intent of the 14th amendment, as he (and his party) seem to fundamentally disagree with Section 3 as well.

I oppose the proposed guidance because it would greatly endanger our trans and non-binary students. They are already at higher risks of violence and suicide, and the proposed guidance would strip them of what little protections and support they have. The reality is that trans and non-binary people (including children) exist. This fact is not going to change based on the guidance, but what will change would be their rights to safety and privacy. The proposal does not respect students as people.

We desperately need to focus on policy and curriculum that actually helps Virginia Students rather than wasting all of our time dealing with your own personal obsession with children in bathrooms and their sex/gender identity. We should focus on policies that protect the privacy and safety of all VA students over the ideology of some parents.


This is a terrible policy decision.


Oppose- VA

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Absolutely no one should be circumventing parents. It is absolutely insane that this is even in question. Parents know their children best. It should be against the law for a school to do anything regarding minors without parents consent. It should be put into law that parental consent is mandatory for parental consent but no school should be teaching CRCT or anything of sensitive nature without parental consent. I do not concent.


I oppose this fully.


I adamantly oppose this

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<p>I adamantly oppose this legislation. </p>


Strongly oppose - please don’t let politics influence science this is only harmful

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There’s years of research that demonstrate that curriculums that include respect for others regarding their sexual orientation and gender identity are more effective

When you make a school environment safe and supportive for the most vulnerable youth, you improve the school environment for everyone

As a Virginia voter and tax payer I strongly oppose this change parents can’t decide gender nor should they have to sign a form. Students need to decide themselves


This is wrong

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<p>Glenny boy, this is a bad decision and you are hurting very real people for the sake of politics. </p>


(Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools)

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I fully support the changes to this policy!

Thank you-

Elizabeth


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I oppose this in the strongest possible manor.


Protect Transgender & Non-binary youth

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<p>Please maintain the current policies which protect and affirm transgender and non-binary youth. Kids need to be free to learn in a gender-affirming environment. </p>


Protect Trans and Nonbinary kids

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Maya Angelou is quoted  "Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better."

We know better and we can do better and what more important place to do this than with our children.  Trans and Non-binary kids need our support!!!


Do not do this.


Government Overreach

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The Trend towards authoritarianism in this state is shameful.  Be it teacher snitch lines, live feeds of classrooms or this see something say something re Trans youth. In this country we have freedom and privacy and that right extends to our children.  I don't want the government in my children's private life.


Opposed

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<p>Opposed. Trans students deserve better. </p>


I oppose this bill

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Please oppose this bill it is awful


This will bring harm to trans kids.

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This will bring harm to trans kids.


This is a horrendous policy!

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<p>This is a horrible policy, you should be ashamed </p>


Strongly oppose.


I support this change.

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Schools should stay out of gender identity and sexual preferences. They should be respectful of all students while sticking to providing education. Parents should provide legal documentation of name and/or gender change to require school staff or students to address a student by biological/legal name/pronouns. No biological male should be allowed to compete in female sports or enter bathrooms/locker rooms; vice versa for females participating in male sport or enter bathrooms.

I certainly don't want schools teaching gender/transgender topics or casually discussing with students. Teachers are not there to be a friend . Students don't need to know what staff do on weekends or in relationships. It's called boundaries.

In the end, when is kids leave school, parents deal with any issues impacting their children.

I feel giving kids consent starting at 14 years old has created more issues than it resolved. Until a person is 18 years old parents are responsible and impacted by a child's decisions including those choices someone else influences.

It's time to stop lying about biological gender. Chromosomes are real. This is a psychological situation. Many professionals in the medical, legal, popolitical, and psychological communities are making financial and professional gains at the expensive of these children/adolescents.


I completely oppose this.

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<p>The proposed Transgender policy is terrible. </p>


policies

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I support Governor Youngkin's policies.  I do think that parents should be involved in their children's education.


I support Governor Younkin

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Thank you Governor Youngkin for protecting our kids.


This will bring harm to trans kids.


Strongly oppose Gov. Youngkin's policy change

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The policy of 2021 is intended to protect the mental health and well being of transgender students in Virginia. The Governor's change is an attempt to counter that effort. To the Governor and his political cronies: The harm you cause to these children will follow you and your excuses will not ease your conscience. The damage to their mental health, their families and ultimately, the loss of precious lives will be on YOUR hands and on your mind forever.


I am strongly opposed.


I oppose this fully.


I oppose

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Our children need our support

I oppose this as a form of alienation and hate against our children


Government Overreach

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The Trent towards authoritarianism in this state is shameful.  Be it teacher snitch lines, live feeds of classrooms or this see something say something re Trans youth. In this country we have freedom and privacy and that right extends to our children.  I don't want the government in my children's private life.


Do not do this.


Transgender student persecution

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Hateful and disgusting proposal. Strongly oppose this


Harmful!  Harmful!  Harmful!

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I strongly oppose this.  It will bring harm to everyone involved.


I am completely opposed.

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I am completely opposed.


I am completely opposed.


Fully opposed to these policies

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I am fully opposed and disgusted by such policies being put into place.

This helps nobody, this hurts so many, will even hurt cisgendered kids too at some point as many of these anti-trans policies tend to do.

There is no need for hate in schools, teachers should not become the gestapo to out these kids to the State, the governor or their families.

Shame on you Governor for proposing such a policy. It belongs no where in Virginia, in this country, or on this planet.


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I oppose this in the strongest possible manor.


Protect Trans kids

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As a parent and professional educator, I strongly oppose the Governor's proposal requiring trans students to file documents to use a chosen name and their pronouns.  This will do irreparable and unnecessary harm to children who are in greatest need of our support.


This is a terrible policy decision.

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This is a terrible policy decision.


Transgender

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I was a teacher for many years and the public schools have gotten out of control.

Instead of encouraging kids to look at themselves as though they were a mistake we need to get these kids help. This is a psychological issue that only causes children to be confused when they don’t need to be. Adults should be ashamed of theme for pushing this on kids. Be parents be teachers and let’s stop this nonsense.


This will bring harm to trans kids.

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This will bring harm to trans kids.


Strongly oppose.


I'm just scared that I'm gay


Student guidelines, LGBTQ

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Please don’t do bigotry and move us all backward. Please don’t make children’s lives harder just for a vote from people inclined toward fascism.

Katie Stauss


It is a grave mistake to pass this.

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It is a grave mistake to pass this.


You are furthering a nationwide tragedy

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All we ask is that we be allowed autonomy of our bodies and lives. There are claims that it is too early for children to make life-altering surgical decisions for themselves and I agree. It is.

But that's not what is being asked. The actual request is simply for trans kids' pronouns to be respected and to get access to puberty blockers. They don't stop a child who later realizes they're cis from developing in line with their sex, but will allow a trans child to avoid painful permanent changes to their bodies that WILL require surgery to fix.

For all their arguments of "saving children from permanent changes" supporters of this are working towards forcing permanent changes onto children. The only humane thing to be done is to oppose this document. To do anything else is not only to work against the values of this nation, it is an affront to basic decency.


Disgraceful

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This is going to cause so much harm. It shouldn't be surprising if students will die because of this. I'm so sick of the irrational fear.


Do not do this.


Youngkin hates the first amendment and free expression.

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<p>Governor Younkin hates the first amendment and the right to free expression. </p>


Fully support this policy update

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Bring back the common sense to Virginia!


I strongly oppose this.


I oppose this in the strongest possible manor.


I fully oppose this.


It is a grave mistake to pass this.


Strongly oppose

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<p>This policy will hurt kids and families. Please don’t do this. </p>


This will bring harm to trans kids.


Strongly opposed to this policy

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This policy will create an unsafe environment for many school students and will likely lead to students being harmed or dying. Please support students in Virginia's public schools by protecting their right to privacy.


I vehemently oppose!

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<p>This policy is not about protecting children, this is about the Governor's pandering to the far-right and former President Trump.  I vehemently oppose this policy.  Trans students need our support and protection.  </p>


I oppose this fully.


Only causes harm

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<p>These laws won’t prevent assault and will only harm trans kids. If a boy wanted to walk into the girls bathroom to assault someone they could that easily without pretending to be trans. I have seen it happen. There is nobody guarding bathrooms and  it only takes minutes for an assault to happen. If anything pretending to be a trans girl would make it harder for them to assault because people pay closer attention to trans people. Furthermore by forcing trans girls to use the mens restroom you are putting them at risk for assault. Yes, it is not impossible for a trans girl to be a predator, but they have the same likelihood of being predators as EVERYONE ELSE. They aren’t special, cis women assault other cis women, cis men assault other cis men, but you wouldn’t ban a cis women from the girls bathroom even after she was accused of assault. So why punish the innocent children who just want to go to the bathroom without it being political. Another point I have is by forcing trans men to use the girls bathroom you are actively putting men in the girls bathroom. I know trans boys that are able to live without anyone knowing they are trans, so if that boy walked into the women’s restroom because the law required it then the girls in the bathroom would probably feel uncomfortable. On top of all the bathroom things these laws would just be putting trans kids at risk of more harassment, bullying, and abuse. When we don’t listen to kids about who they are then they will resort to extremes. Don’t let that happen, just let the kids explore their identities and come to their own conclusions while being in a healthy environment to do so. </p>


Strongly oppose.


Appropriate subjects to be taught in school

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<p>I think it is very important to get back to what school is supposed to be about. Learning Educating our children about history, English, math and science. Anything else belongs at home. School shouldn’t be a social experiment. </p>


Opposed

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I am fully opposed to the passing of this policy. Schools are a place children should feel safe, protected, and welcome to be themselves. This policy would do harm to the welcoming environment school are trying to create. This policy makes (some) adults more comfortable, not children. Schools are for children, not adults. We should be supporting our children's mental health and providing a safe space for them to learn. Let's focus on changes to school policy that are actually beneficial to children.


100% support

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Every parent should have the right to know what is going on with her children in and out of school. Please protect the rights of our children by not letting boys play girls sports. Please protect our children by not letting boys enter girls bathrooms. We voted for you, please do the right thing.


Fully support this policy update

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<p>Finally a step in the right direction! I fully support this policy update. </p>


I oppose this bill

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So many things are wrong with this. This bill will not only harm Trans kids, who, fun fact, are more likely to commit suicide if misgendered, but the counselor part can also harm abused children. No part of this bill helps anyone, and it is heavily transphobic.


Do not do this.


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I oppose this in the strongest possible manor.


This is a terrible policy decision.

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This is a terrible policy decision.


I fully oppose this.


It is a grave mistake to pass this.


Oppose your proposal

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<p>Strongly oppose </p>


I oppose this

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I oppose this bill. It promotes the hate and otherization of transgender students. Trans students deserve dignity like everyone else.


I am completely opposed.

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I am completely opposed.


I fully support this

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<p>Parents should be 100% involved in their child's lives. This push to make kids question their gender must stop.  Any child who is questioning their gender needs the involvement of their parents whether they think they need it or not.  School employees are in NO WAY entitled to take the place of parents or guardians in such a huge life decision.  </p>


Strongly oppose


I fully support this

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I am 100% in favor of this


Against proposal

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I am strongly against this proposal that hurts Trans students


I am strongly opposed.


Opposed

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If you really believe all kids deserve to be treated with respect than do not pass.  Trans kids are kids.  They deserve respect and compassion.


I am completely opposed.


This will bring harm to trans kids.

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This will bring harm to trans kids.


This will bring harm to trans kids.


Strongly oppose.


We Must Protect Trans Youth

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The Governor's discriminatory plan against transgender youth is abhorrent. This action flies in the face of all guidance for providing safe spaces for at risk children, and trans children are very at risk. If his proposed model is adopted, trans children bwill be harmed and unfortunately some will die most likely from suicide because they were outed to unsupportive and abusive parents. This is horrific and unacceptable. This action is a page out of fascist playbooks from the 1930s and it fuels extremist bigotry, hate, and violence. We cannot allow VA to go down this path. Furthermore, it is unconstitutional.


Fundamentally wrong.

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Governor Youngkin:

What you have proposed will have tragic consequences.

There is one data point to keep in mind as this egregious new policy is debated and implemented: a young LGBTQ person attempts suicide every 45 seconds in America.

Every 45 seconds.

Research consistently shows that LGBTQ youth in America are more than four times as likely to attempt suicide than their peers. Among trans or nonbinary American youth, the outlook is darker still. Transgender and nonbinary youth are more than twice as likely to seriously consider or attempt suicide compared to their other LGBQ peers.

Research also consistently shows that young LGBTQ Americans report lower rates of attempted suicide when they have access to safe and affirming environments. In particular, attempted suicide rates dropped when LGBTQ youth found their schools to be welcoming and affirming of their identity. A peer-reviewed study published in 2021 found that transgender and nonbinary youth who reported gender identity acceptance from at least one adult in their lives were 33% less likely to report a suicide attempt in the past year. Put another way, trans students who are not respected and accepted by the adults in their lives — particularly those they interact with most at school — are 33% more likely to commit suicide than trans students who are welcomed and supported at school.

The research is clear. The data does not lie. If Virginia moves ahead with this policy — one that mandates school environments that are inherently unwelcoming and unaccepting of LGBTQ youth — trans and nonbinary students in our Commonwealth will face a significantly greater risk of suicide than their peers. Rather than do all you can to keep Virginia students alive and well, you are headed down a path of guaranteed pain and heartache for this already vulnerable group of young people.

This policy is fundamentally wrong and its outcomes tragically unacceptable. It helps no one, but it harms many. There is no justification for such transparent cruelty in Virginia.

Congressman Gerald E. Connolly

Virginia’s 11th District


This policy is harmful to student mental health

Christine Eagan, Nationally Certified School Psychologist

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Governor Youngkin,
At the beginning of each school year, teachers often ask their students how they want to be addressed. This small gesture demonstrates to students that they are a valued member of their classroom community. Furthermore, according to the NIH, "chosen name use is linked to reduced depressive symptoms, suicidal ideation and behavior among transgender youth."

Educators strive to create a school community that allows all students to learn in a safe and welcoming environment. Unfortunately, research published by SAMHSA demonstrates that not all parents strive to do the same. According to the data, 26% of LGBT youth report being forced from their home upon revealing their sexual identity to their parents."

It is because of this that I, a mother, school psychologist, and Virginia resident, strongly condemn your policy that forces teachers and staff to choose between putting students' lives in danger and treating them with respect.


Do not do this.


It is a grave mistake to pass this.

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It is a grave mistake to pass this.


I strongly oppose this policy.

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<p>"Inasmuch as you have done these to the least of these my people, you have done it to me." I believe in the separation of church and state, but I also believe in the New Testament principles of compassion. This policy is harmful, not compassionate. </p>


Support of Youngkin’s policy

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I am in support of Youngkin’s change so that parents may effectively assist their children in making logical decisions based on their birth gender and not cause a lifetime of harm and confusion to their children. As an educator at an institution of higher learning,  and with a doctor of education degree, I assert that children do not typically have the cognitive or emotional ability to make such extreme decisions that could negatively affect their  entire lives.


I oppose this fully.


Common Sense

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There should be no such thing as trans kids and people need stop normalizing it.

I have no problem with trans adults and understand if someone wants to start their transformation process at or around 16yo but below that is straight lunacy. Everyone should go through puberty to figure out who they are. Some of these children are just simply gay or in worst cases only doing it because they “think” they are the opposite sex and society is telling them it’s acceptable to change. There are a few children that need attention and direction and should be protected from discrimination but by no means is this really at a level needed to effect all students. This has become out of control and the more some people try to overwhelmingly normalize the argument the more other people aren’t going to accept it. What is non-binary anyway? Pick a gender already. I do think when new High Schools are built additional bathrooms should be added as well as a better solution when it comes to sports. Maybe all gender sports teams could be created in addition to the specific gender teams or something different that doesn’t include biological males competing with females and biological females competing with males.  Parents should have the right and knowledge of what is happening to their children outside of the home.  Parents and teachers/schools should be each other’s ally in the child’s development and not hide things from the parent or the teacher (when appropriate). By discussing a child’s gender preference we are also discussing their sexual preferences which is outright crazy and if the person can not be described as a young trans adult then no one should be having this conversation.


I oppose this.

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<p>This will harm children </p>


It is a grave mistake to pass this.


Strongly Oppose

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<p>This document fails to address the safety of LGBT students in Virginia. While people may have differing views, safety should always come first. The guidance in this document will lead to harassment and discrimination of LGBT students. Every child deserves safe and accessible education.  Additionally, I believe that some of the guidance goes against federal laws and policies, and may even be treading on violating the rights given to us in the Constitution. "Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness" encompasses American values. This document fails to live up to those values. </p>


Gender choices without parental consent


I am completely opposed.


Against

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This bills pretends to be for parents' rights.  But what it will do is hurt children.

"All students have the right to attend school in an environment free from discrimination, harassment, or bullying"   This bill will do the opposite.  It will identify certain students, against their will.  This will directly result in them being harassed and bullied.

Students should be allowed to identify themselves when they are comfortable and on their timeline.  Not because the governor wants to score points with his voter base.


I am strongly opposed.


Please protect vulnerable students

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<p>In the course of my work, I come across transgender people regularly. They are by far the minority. And, they want the same things that the majority do - to live life on their terms, to be safe, and to be happy. This policy strips those things from the most vulnerable among us. It is shameful, and those of us with respect for all people should oppose it vociferously. </p>


I fully oppose this.


Strongly oppose.


I oppose

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<p>I oppose this proposal. We must protect the vulnerable in our communities. We must protect trans kids. This policy does not prioritize their rights and safety. </p>


This will bring harm to trans kids.


I strongly oppose this change that will harm our children

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My comments are in regards to 2022 MODEL POLICIES ON THE PRIVACY, DIGNITY, AND RESPECT FOR ALL STUDENTS AND PARENTS IN VIRGINIA’S PUBLIC SCHOOLS

The comments made by the Department in this proposal are incredibly self-contradictory, to an alarming degree. This document outlines the requirements of the government to fulfill its obligation to us the citizens, and then attempts to flout those duties and obligations in our face. I am insulted by this proposal, and oppose it to the fullest extent.

This update purports to respect the rights of parents in making decisions for their children. Then, in the suggested policy document, section III.D., instructs all Department personnel to use legal documents as the proper way to refer to a child, even if that runs in direct opposition to the wishes of the parents of that child (not to mention the wishes of the child in question!). Only a parent wishing to harm their trans child by denying them the ability to be called their desired name would be happy with this suggested policy. That makes it incredibly frustrating that it is presented as "respecting the rights and wishes of parents". Perhaps there is a misunderstanding: When a child communicates that they are trans to their parents and the parents accept it, their legal documents do not update right away. The process is long, and sometimes difficult, and sometimes the parent wants to provide space for the child to understand themselves fully before making legal changes. It can be useful to allow the child to socially transition without a medical or legal transition. If the social transition feels wrong, it is easy to detransition. Forcing parents to pursue legal action before the school simply respects their wishes is inane. This framing is fraudulent in nature, and it only makes a subset of parents feel like their wishes are being respected. Insanely enough, the most pleased parents are those that do not have trans children, but instead parents who specifically want to know that teachers will disrespect someone else's trans child.

The proposal in this document operates under the assumption that Free Speech, as granted in the First Amendment, protects an individual's right to bully, harass, demean, or discriminate against someone. However, it is well-documented that some speech acts are not protected speech. Imagine if Department personnel called an overweight student "Porker". If the Department ordered that employee call the student by their preferred name, is that a Free Speech violation? Should the Department personnel have the inherent right to demean that child? I would argue that this is not an instance of protected speech, and it would be right for the Department to discipline that employee for doing something so cruel. It must be noted that this is exactly the intended experience for trans students who do not have a legal gender marking corresponding to their actual gender. The Department wishes to permit employees to purposefully use the wrong name and wrong pronouns for students in their care. The American Psychological Association would be abhorred at the treatment.

I need to call out this quote in particular:

Every effort should be made to ensure that a transgender student wishing to change his or her means of address is treated with respect, compassion, and dignity in the classroom and school environment.

This is simply a lie, in black and white, on this document. This policy instructs personnel to treat transgender students without respect, by disregarding their request unless they go through an entirely legal channel which may or may not be available to that student or their parents.

The fact that this document contains so many self-contradictions -- stating it must protect the rights of trans students and their parents, and then instructing employees to disregard them -- makes this policy proposal INCREDIBLY CONFUSING. Some schools that adopt this may meet legal challenges that are not accounted for in the sections on additional related laws, because some of the reported findings are incredibly narrow. Furthermore, two schools that adopt this policy document would not necessarily enforce it the same, since they may see contradictory aspects of the policy to have different orders of precedence, and thus result in different rulings.

Most importantly, this document is disrespectful of the experience of transgender students, and it does not seem to represent their interests or the interests of THEIR parents. Instead, it seems to be most concerned with protecting certain speech acts by its employees and parents of other children who are ignorant to these experiences. Some of them are transphobic, and some of them have never met a trans person.

The 2021 Policy document had two PAGES of acknowledgements of individuals that contributed significantly to the clear and precise language of that policy. This messy, shoddily justified revision purports to adhere to the same legal requirements, but I find it deficient, and it lists only these acknowledgements:

These 2022 Model Policies are the result of consultation with educational leaders within the Department and stakeholders throughout the Commonwealth, including taking into account the over 9,000 comments received during the public comment period for the draft 2021 Model Policies, and, most importantly, parents of children in our public schools.

Zero named individuals. No proof of who those stakeholders are or why they get to harm transgender students with these changes.

I hope my comment in this public comment period is treated with the same gigantic importance that this document attributes to the previous comment period. I am sorry that I wasn't able to use this forum to voice my VEHEMENT support for the 2021 policy document which is clear, precise, and backed up both by legal protections and by recommendations from MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS IN THE FIELD OF MENTAL HEALTH FOR TRANSGENDER INDIVIDUALS, and incredibly important point that is entirely missing from this 2022 revision.

I went to Virginia public schools K-12, and after a few years out of state I returned here to work as an adult because I love the state. However, the treatment of transgender students I saw when I was a student was atrocious. I do not wish to see any other students suffer in the ways that I witnessed. The 2021 policy document did a lot of good towards improving this situation. The proposed 2022 revision would be an outstanding leap BACKWARDS for our students and our commonwealth.


I am completely opposed.

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I am completely opposed.


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I oppose this in the strongest possible manor.


I oppose this fully.


Do not do this.


Oppose

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This is sheer cruelty and I oppose it vehemently.


I oppose this policy.


This will bring harm to trans kids.

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This will bring harm to trans kids.


In absolute and total support of this bill!

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I am absolutely in favor of this bill. Listen to those who as adults now speak out about having been transitioned as kids and the Damage it did to them. Then think about whether your kids are ready to sign up in the military, or get married, or even buy a house or a car, and whether a kid has the ability to make decisions like that which are not permanent and probably won't destroy their entire life and certainly they would be able to take back at a later date. Then ask yourself how well your kids are prepared to make a life altering and absolutely permanent decision.


Please understand that you are hurting trans kids.

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Given the day and age we live in, children have so much to worry about in their lives, including the discovery of who they are. They deserve an environment in which they can explore themselves entirely. Should the situation they find themselves in at home does not foster such discovery, it is the duty of the educational community to generate one for them. Respecting youth’s wishes, especially ones as simple as pronouns and privacy, gives them the smallest semblance of personhood that surely has been torn away from them outside school.

children are people. Please let them be people, not objects of projection.


Opposed!

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<p>I strongly oppose the hate-filled, hurtful and bigoted Virginia Department of Education’s new so-called “model” policies directing school districts to require transgender students to use restrooms, locker rooms and participate in programs that align with their biological sex rather than their gender identity. This intrusive proposal would hurt students, their teachers, their families and friends, and it is counterproductive to a fair, inclusive education for all Virginia students. </p>


I object

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This legislation codifies discrimination. Protect trans kids!


This is a terrible policy decision.

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This is a terrible policy decision.


Strongly oppose

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This newly proposed guidance for treatment of transgender and nonbinary kids is misguided and disheartening. This guidance prohibits school staff from supporting trans kids, when those kids come to them needing help. And it allows schools to foster a hostile environment for trans kids by ignoring their name and pronouns. As a parent, I want to know my kids are safe and supported at school. This is just one more step on the path of gutting public schools by making them unsafe and unappealing to students and parents.


Terrible Policy!

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These policies are extremely harmful for our youth and future as a nation.


OPPOSE

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<p>Strongly oppose. </p>


Strongly Oppose

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<p>A parent’s job is not to shape a child’s identity or to claim rights to it. </p>


I fully oppose this.


This will bring harm to trans kids.


Think of the Students, not Politics

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When I was a child my home was a trainwreck.  I wasn't safe and I wasn't happy.  Going to school?  It was my respite.  It was what kept me together at times when I could not keep going.  The teachers and staff who supported me were my lifelines.  As a teacher who worked with transgender students I can assure you that this proposed policy WILL cause additional stress and difficulties for these young people. Did you know that LGBTQ+ people attempt suicide at a 80% higher rate than the rest of the population? And it is because of this exact kind of thing -- taking away very basic rights (there is nothing more basic than bathroom needs). This isn't being done because it is good for these teens but because there is a minority of people who believe that LGBTQ+ people should not exist.  That message is loud and clear.  I remember one student, particularly. How his transition (with full support of his parents) was a very slow, drawn out process. Years. I remember his sadness at skipping field trips because he was afraid that there wouldn't be a bathroom he could use. How he was given a key to the Principal's office to use that bathroom, but it meant travelling a good bit between classes as he couldn't use the closest bathroom. And I remember the joy. Seeing him right after his first year of college. His transition was complete. No one who saw him would think of him as anything other than a male. If he walked into a women's bathroom today it would be ... highly problematic. He was happy. He was content. He talked about fitting into his own skin, his life, more than he ever had before. I urge everyone reading this to tell your stories.  Tell the stories of those who need acceptance and support, who need schools to be a safe place for them. Did Governor Youngkin meet with a single trans person before proposing this legislation?  No.  Because he's not legislating for the good of the kids.  He is legislating from a place of religion and politics, neither of which belong in this discussion.  People are who they are. And neither religion nor politics should be the arbiter of how people live.  That's called Freedom.  That's called America.


This is a terrible policy decision.


It is a grave mistake to pass this.

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It is a grave mistake to pass this.


I oppose this


It is a grave mistake to pass this.


I condemn this policy

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<p>There is no "parental choice" in who your kids grow up to be. As parents, we do our best to ensure that they grow up to be kind citizens and productive members of society. Beyond that, it is not up to any parent to choose their child's identity. And if your child doesn't feel like they can share their identity with you as parents... Then you are the problem. Not the child. Not the school. Not the teachers. Not the regulations. </p>


So very shameful

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This is a major disgrace. Some say this is about parents rights and that is nonsense. This could cause suicides and even murders. Shame on Youngkin and shame on everyone who supports this.


Everyone is obviously against this.

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Well over 95% of comments on here are completely against this policy, yet Youngkin will likely still follow through with implementation. This is why Republicans have become a trash show in recent years; they no longer stand for what the majority of their constituents actually want, regardless of how much they tout that they’re “for the working class” and such. Actions speak louder than words, so make an action that stand with the majority instead of what your funders want.


I oppose this fully.


I strongly support

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<p style="padding-left: 40px;">I support strongly </p>


Strongly oppose.


I am completely opposed.

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I am completely opposed.


Support this policy

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<p>I believe in including parents in the upbringing of their children. The previous policies completely ignored them/us and made things secretive. </p>


I 100% support this

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I support this policy because it respects the parents and parental control. Schools should not be pushing transgenderism behind parents’ backs or keeping information from parents. I fully suppor this!


Do not do this.


Awful policy

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This is endangering to the positive environment children deserve


I am strongly opposed.


I oppose this

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This policy is a disgrace. We should be working to make trans and non-binary youth feel included, supported, and loved. According to the NIH 86% of trans youth have contemplated suicide and 56% have attempted suicide. It is policies like these that make trans youth feel invalidated and can lead to severe harm. If you truly care about children you will not repeal the 2021 policies and will continue to affirm and protect trans and non-binary youth in Virginia.


I strongly oppose

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<p>This “policy” would harm young people on the commonwealth. I strongly oppose adopting this. </p>


Trans People Deserve Respect and Dignity

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Transgender individuals deserve to use the restroom without being subjected to harassment, kept from being forcibly outed, or kept from using the pronouns that correspond to their gender identity. It's ok to have transgender people in a community, and they exist in every community. It's not a 'fad', it's not a 'disease', it's not 'woowoo'. it's people wanting to live their lives' as close to how they feel as possible, and to deny their basic rights is to suggest they don't deserve to be amongst the rest of the community. People can decide to be transgender, straight, or the identity that fits to them. That's their freedom to do so, and their autonomy.


This is a terrible policy decision.

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This is a terrible policy decision.


This is a terrible policy decision.


Parents need to know

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I agree with the proposed changes to the transgender policies for public schools.  Parents need to know what is happening with their children. Schools and teachers are there to teach math and reading not to push their social agendas on children.  Parents need to know and make the decision with their children about any health or body changes.  I am grateful for Governor Youngken and his fight for parents.  I have 2 children in public schools and pray the schools are not overrun by the small minority trying to poison or children and schools with their extreme views and twisted self perception.


Very strongly oppose

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As a student myself, I very strongly oppose this. Students should be able to speak for themselves and decide things for themselves. Doing this takes away our rights. In fact, there has been a Supreme Court case ruling in favor of a trans man using a men's bathroom. This policy directly goes against this ruling.

You shouldn't always listen to the parents, listen to the kids, the people who are actually being affected by this policy. Parents don't always know what's right.


I am completely opposed.


I oppose this policy

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<p>This is not the right way to address parental involvement or security in schools. It will harm students and penalize teachers. </p>


I strongly oppose this.

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I am a student at wjcc schools. I am dating a nb (non binary) person who I love and adore. I know that if they where outed to their parents they would face abuse at home. If this goes through they will have to face abuse at home and a much harder time at school. School should be safe. If this goes through it will not.

sincerely,

a concerned student.


Anti trans policy

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Your transphobic policy is hateful, doesn't follow any kind of science and is pandering to homo and transphobic, fear-mongering, ignorant people. These types of policies do nothing but spread hate and put trans people at risk!


This will bring harm to trans kids.

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This will bring harm to trans kids.


This will bring harm to trans kids.


I fully oppose this.


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I oppose this in the strongest possible manor.


Do not do this.


Strongly oppose.


I am strongly opposed.


Oppose

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<p>School systems just spent time and resources complying with the original directive given by VADOE, no need to go backwards now. We need to get back to teaching math and reading. Call the kid what they asked to be called and let them use the restroom. </p>


Teachers have a duty to love/teach and respect ALL children.

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I'm completely/strongly against outing trans students, banning from bathrooms, banning their pronouns and more etc. I am completely disgusted and frankly horrified by this targeted hate of an already vulnerable group of children.

School is not just about teaching Maths, English etc its about providing a safe space for children so they may learn in the best possible way and flourish as the best possible person to take on the world after school. School is about preparing children for the adult world and in the adult world they will come across people of different backgrounds, cultures, pronouns, identities etc and thats life and have to work alongside everyone whether closed minded people want to accept that are not.

Outing a trans child to their piers/community is incredibly dangerous especially given the strong current anti trans movement at the moment. Humiliating and causing extreme emotional distress along with potential bullying is not going to help that student get straight A's and flourish as an individual. In fact this will lead them down a very dark path of bad grades, destroying their options for a great college, self loathing, potential self harm or abuse from other people and or community.

I beg you as a school and place of Education that you love, respect and protect your students regardless of Pronouns, Gender Identity or Sexuality. As teachers and as a school you should want the best for these children as a group and as an individual. It is you're job to protect these children especially children that have Gender Dysphoria or are gender non conforming as they are already extremely vulnerable and statistically at an increased risk of self harming/suicide and abuse.

A great and loving teacher makes all the difference to these children and in their adult years to come. In school children learn to socialise, bond, make friends and form healthy relationships alongside learning subjects. A hostile, hateful and restrictive atmosphere is not going to make these kids into good/productive adults for your community.

I look up to and respect the USA and i myself are in my final year at University studying an Honers degree in Scotland and wish to move to America but i am really upset seeing this targeted hate sweep across America like this. Please be an example to other states and countries by showing love and protection to these trans and gender non conforming children as they are entitled to be protected like everyone else. As educators you owe these children that much, don't let politics and hate cloud you're judgment and harm these children just because they are more unique. Whatever becomes acceptable in America tends to become acceptable in other countries, America must be the light in the darkest of places.

Thank you very much for reading this and i hope you make the right decision. Sending love from the people of Scotland.


There are More of Us than there are of You Transphobes and we're dragging VA Blue

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<p>I see comments saying that people must be spanning the comments with opposition. That's just not true. What you are seeing is the outcry from NOVA voters, particuarlly those in Fairfax County, one of the largest districts in the commonwealth. Glenn Youngkin has made a mistake. He will not be re-elected. I know it's hard to believe that there is a diverse community of compassionate individuals just a few hours away, when all your neighbors think the same as you do, but there is. We are responsible for Virginia's designation as a "purple" state and we will continue to tilt the vote in democrats favor and enact laws that treat all people with dignity and respect. </p>


I oppose this fully.


The existing scheme harms children.

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Every person who has or who will come into this world will face the generic challenge of developing his or her own identity.  For some people, this will be more of a challenge than for others.  That is just the way of things, and no law or regulation can change that.

Admittedly, people, whether young or older, who wake up each day and perceiving that they occupy a body that does not correspond to their "gender", start each day from a very challenging starting point.  They are not the happiest people.  But, it is more than hubristic to think that outsiders can confidently intervene in the process of constructing identities or in the complex biological processes that inform the development of identities.  We shouldn't be playing God, and we shouldn't be sneaking around and cutting parents out of big (and, possibly, irreversible and harmful) decisions in the lives of young people.


Government, Stay out of peoples lives.

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It has been proven time and time again that children, including trans children, are afforded the same rights as any Adult US Citizen. They should be afforded the right to privacy as well, even from their parents. Protect Trans Kids.


It is a grave mistake to pass this.

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It is a grave mistake to pass this.


Strongly agree

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want to return to common sense and give parents the right to control their children's education...


This is a terrible policy decision.


Thank you Gov Youngkin for protecting the most innocent

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Thank you Governor Youngkin for taking a stand to protect children from the pedophiles in the Va Public School system!  Parents are responsible for guiding their children into adulthood, at which time the young person could then make a mature and informed decision on their own - and not before.  Adulthood varies, but no school or state agency should be involved in the so called "identity" of any child under at least the age of 18.  It is ridiculous that we have to have these discussions to protect the most innocent among us.  And if one can not or does not acknowledge that children are mentally and maturity in-capable of processing these decisions, then the gov't must step in to protect them from the predators among us.


It is a grave mistake to pass this.


Believe Trans Kids.  Protect Trans Kids.

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I oppose the Governor's revisions.  Transgender children in our community deserve to be safe and respected at school.  This means that they deserve to be referred to by the pronouns they use.  They deserve to be referred to by the name they have chosen that affirms their identity.


This will bring harm to trans kids.


I support this bill

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<p>Children do not have a right to decide their own medical decisions, why would they be trusted to make life altering choices that can radically alter their very being? When a child tells you that they want to be a princess or a dinosaur, we don't take it serious. It is part of being a child. Opposing this bill is anti-woman and allows over sexualized boys to mingle with young girls, without their consent. Opposing this tears down safe spaces for young girls in schools, and allows delusional childish thinking to rule over objective reality. </p>


Unnecessary and cruel

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This “policy” is designed to shame teens and drive them back into hiding.  It is unnecessary and cruel.  I oppose this policy.


I strongly oppose this.

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I strongly oppose this. It will directly harm trans children.


I am completely opposed.

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I am completely opposed.


Do not do this.


I oppose

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I am opposed to this. The rights of transgender students should be upheld.


Strongly Oppose

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As a parent I strongly oppose


Strongly oppose.


Hey man, this sucks!!!

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<p>This policy does not protect children, it harms LGBT youth </p>


Oppose this cruel policy

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We have two transgender grandchildren and are VERY grateful they and their siblings are not growing up in Virginia. This policy is horridly punishing to kids who are already struggling with the comments of ignorant bigoted staff and students.

Please don’t let it go through.


I fully oppose this.


I strongly support parental rights

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I strongly support parental rights!


I oppose this fully.


Opposed to the proposed transgender policy

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Governor Youngkin and his hand-picked Board of Education are showing their lack of commitment to parental rights by dictating how transgender kids are addressed and treated in schools. This administration has obviously never read the statistics about these children and the terrible abuse they’ll suffer from not being allowed to identify with their preferred gender. If the new policies are allowed to be implemented, I hope the administration is prepared to accept full responsibility for the collateral damage that will result.

Governor Youngkin is certainly showing his true colors as a selfish and cruel MAGA Republican. Shame on him!


It is a grave mistake to pass this.


This will bring harm to trans kids.

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This will bring harm to trans kids.


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This is a pathetic policy grounded in ignorance and fear, opposed to fact and research. As a citizen within the State of Virginia, my hope is that the 'adults' at the table could rise to the occasion in being as open-minded, innovative, loving, kind, and inclusive as the students who your ignorance either unknowingly or knowingly seeks to repress with senseless barriers. Policies like this play into uneducated fear by actively reinforcing dangerous stereotypes that couldn't be further from any kind of best-practice from an educational, developmental, psychological, sociological, or civil right's standpoint. I am embarrassed that in an opportunity to lead the way, Virginia is showcasing its ignorance. Please, do better.


This will bring harm to trans kids.


Protect Trans Kids

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This is an abominable policy. Trans children deserve privacy, protection, compassion, and respect. That means the bathroom and pronouns of their gender identity.


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I oppose this in the strongest possible manor.


I am strongly opposed.


No.

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<p>This will be incredibly harmful to our children. </p>


It is a grave mistake to pass this.

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It is a grave mistake to pass this.


Do not do this.