I fully support the new pro-parent policies proposed by the Virginia Department of Education

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I wanted to lend my support to the new pro-parent policies set forth by the VA Dept. of Education.  The reasons for my support are:

The new policies honor the sacred role of parents in the care of their children during school, athletics and other activities.

Parents know their children’s needs better than anyone. If children are struggling with gender dysphoria, they need guidance and emotional support from parents. Under the new policies, school officials must keep parents fully informed, and require schools to enforce laws, regulations and policies that prohibit and deter bullying or harassment.

Student participation in sex-specific athletics, school activities and events should be determined by sex, e.g., for overnight travel accommodations and locker rooms.

Students should use the bathrooms that correspond to their sex. Single-user bathrooms and facilities should be made available in accessible areas and provided with appropriate signage, indicating accessibility for all students.

The new policies protect the fundamental religious liberty interests of personnel and students.

Thank you,

Judy Smith


Not much to comment on, proposed changes to broad and unspecific to mean anything

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Everything in the document seems innocent and benevolent, it appears to direction to right a policy which insures every students and parents rights be treated equally.  This is admirable, and difficult.

It doesn't appear to offer any specific ideas of how to achieve this or what the finished policy might actually change any students school experience.

This document seems like political posturing more than any substantive change.


Policy on treatment of transgender students

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I am strongly opposed to the proposed policy changes.   They appear punative and cruel - as well as being dangerous to a vulnerable minority - and unnecessary.  These kids should be left alone.  They have enough to deal with already


strongly oppose this cruel cynicism

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Making schools more humane by protecting diversity improves education and safety for all.  The proposed changes undermine protection for kids who need safe space to figure out for themselves who they are.


I support the policies 100%

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<p>I am in full support of the Governor’s policies on transgender in our schools. </p>


I OPPOSE

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"I don't understand why you would even be willing to put any child through this! It is completely wrong! I should not be up to anyone else to out anyone or tell anyone that who they are is wrong! I grew up so afraid of my family hating me because of this but I got lucky! My school outed me to my mom I was so afraid i was going to kill myself before I could go home. I also have a kid that is just like me and I don't think this kind of trauma should be inflicted on anyone noone should be afraid to go home or to come to school because they believe there family or friends my hate or even hurt them! Would you want  your child to have this risk of being beaten or even murdered just because someone didn't understand them?"}">I don't understand why you would even be willing to put any child through this! It is completely wrong! I should not be up to anyone else to out anyone or tell anyone that who they are is wrong! I grew up so afraid of my family hating me because of this but I got lucky! My school outed me to my mom I was so afraid i was going to kill myself before I could go home. I also have a kid that is just like me and I don't think this kind of trauma should be inflicted on anyone noone should be afraid to go home or to come to school because they believe there family or friends my hate or even hurt them! Would you want your child to have this risk of being beaten or even murdered just because someone didn't understand them?


Backwards and Harmful

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"At the critical ages of young people already in an insecure time of their lives, this legislation will do considerable psychological damage to trans youth. In addition to being damaging, it is pushing the youth into isolation by the rules excluding them and forcing their discomfort with no one to turn to because this word will be law. I implore legislators to try to consider it as this: if YOUR child was being kicked off their sports teams, forced into a bathroom full of people of the opposite sex, and been publicly outed on their precarious self-image, you would be enraged. This is intentionally exclusive and shouldn’t be happening. Children need love and support, not laws telling them who they are at their core is wrong simply because they are more aligned with conventions of the opposite sex."}'>At the critical ages of young people already in an insecure time of their lives, this legislation will do considerable psychological damage to trans youth. In addition to being damaging, it is pushing the youth into isolation by the rules excluding them and forcing their discomfort with no one to turn to because this word will be law. I implore legislators to try to consider it as this: if YOUR child was being kicked off their sports teams, forced into a bathroom full of people of the opposite sex, and been publicly outed on their precarious self-image, you would be enraged. This is intentionally exclusive and shouldn’t be happening. Children need love and support, not laws telling them who they are at their core is wrong simply because they are more aligned with conventions of the opposite sex.


Fully support, common sense

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I fully support the proposed 2022 Guidance Document!  Happy and supported parents equals happy and supported children.  Thank you!


Oppose

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I strongly appose this policy as it will only serve to further stigmatize and endanger an especially vulnerable population. This policy reflects poorly on the Commonwealth.


Oppose

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"The 'model policies' laid out by Glenn Youngkin are abhorrent. They are a step backwards from equality and distract from children's education in schools. Allowing children to be their most free self takes away barriers from learning. We should be supporting our children as they discover and embrace their identities, not shaming them or putting them at risk of bullying, violence, and homelessness by making teachers mandatory reporters. This policy is hated by students and teachers alike, so why is it a good fit for our schools?"}">The 'model policies' laid out by Glenn Youngkin are abhorrent. They are a step backwards from equality and distract from children's education in schools. Allowing children to be their most free self takes away barriers from learning. We should be supporting our children as they discover and embrace their identities, not shaming them or putting them at risk of bullying, violence, and homelessness by making teachers mandatory reporters. This policy is hated by students and teachers alike, so why is it a good fit for our schools?


Strongly Oppose

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<p>Trams rights are human rights.  Stop these hateful and harmful policies under the guise of parental rights.  </p>


Keep our children safe, when we can't!!!!!

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I don't need my child coming home asking my questions.  She is taught there are TWO genders and TWO genders only. That's how you are born, that's how God made you. You can't change who you are .

As for the bathrooms either they need their own or if u still have MALE parts, you are to use the MENS restroom, FEMALE parts, FEMALE restroom.  Too many sicko out here to say they "identify" as something just to rape, sexually harass, traffic,  etc.

Either way bullying will be in schools regardless of some dang policy put in place.


Mental health and wellness

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We have a grandchild that is binary and after serious consideration the parents decided to home school due to bullying and not enough resources in school to address the issue.! He/She/They just graduated high school and seems to be thriving !Let's continue to advocate for them !


Strongly Opposed: Where are personal freedoms?

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The role of a school is to educate students, and support them as they develop into adults. It is not to force them into a role that it believes is correct for them. I can think of many, many friends who are successful, happy, and productive members of society today that would not have had a happy ending to their story if this policy were in place. Students should feel free to express themselves and experiment with their identity without facing consequences that can include being disowned, being kicked out, being beaten, etc. This policy is wrong, and seems illegal.


Support Gov Younkins proposed policy

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Support Gov Youngkin 100%


I Oppose The Draft Policy

I am opposed to this draft policy and want the VDOE to reject it. I myself am a nonbinary student living in Virginia, and this policy threatens me and my peers. I am especially concerned that this policy will force teachers to out students to their parents, which can be very unsafe for students with transphobic parents. I believe that this policy promotes a hostile learning environment, because it disrespects the identities of students who are trans and nonbinary. As a transgender youth, I know how difficult it feels to be unsupported because of your identity. Transphobia negatively impacts the mental health of trans kids, and this policy supports transphobic ideas. Therefore, it harms trans students' mental health.This policy prohibits teachers and school staff from supporting trans & nonbinary students, such as using a student’s affirming name & pronouns. One of my favorite teachers has been very supportive of my identity, and his support has helped me feel understood and more self-confident. I don't know what I would do without the supportive adults in my life. This policy prevents teachers from being supportive, which I am concerned will have a negative impact on transgender students. Without supportive teachers, I am very worried that trans students will feel alone and unwanted.Suicide is a very prevalent issue in the trans community. The Trevor Project’s 2022 National Survey on LGBTQ Youth Mental Health found that 45% of LGBTQ youth seriously considered attempting suicide in the past year, including more than half (53%) of transgender and nonbinary youth. Nearly 1 in 5 transgender and nonbinary youth attempted suicide. However, LGBTQ youth who had access to an LGBTQ-affirming school reported lower rates of attempting suicide than those who did not. Additionally, learning about LGBTQ people or issues was associated with significantly lower odds (23%) of a past-year suicide attempt in LGBTQ students. Therefore, rejecting this transphobic policy would save lives. In addition, a 2021 peer-reviewed study by The Trevor Project’s researchers found that transgender and nonbinary youth who reported gender identity acceptance from teachers and peers had significantly lower odds of attempting suicide in the past year. Transgender and nonbinary youth who reported having pronouns respected by all or most people in their lives attempted suicide at half the rate of those who did not have their pronouns respected.This policy makes trans students feel unsafe and unwelcome at school, which would put them at a higher risk of committing suicide. I implore you to think carefully about the impact this policy would have on Virginia's children.

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"I am opposed to this draft policy and want the VDOE to reject it. I myself am a nonbinary student living in Virginia, and this policy threatens me and my peers. I am especially concerned that this policy will force teachers to out students to their parents, which can be very unsafe for students with transphobic parents. I believe that this policy promotes a hostile learning environment, because it disrespects the identities of students who are trans and nonbinary. \n\nAs a transgender youth, I know how difficult it feels to be unsupported because of your identity. Transphobia negatively impacts the mental health of trans kids, and this policy supports transphobic ideas. Therefore, it harms trans students' mental health.\n\nThis policy prohibits teachers and school staff from supporting trans & nonbinary students, such as using a student’s affirming name & pronouns. One of my favorite teachers has been very supportive of my identity, and his support has helped me feel understood and more self-confident. I don't know what I would do without the supportive adults in my life. This policy prevents teachers from being supportive, which I am concerned will have a negative impact on transgender students. Without supportive teachers, I am very worried that trans students will feel alone and unwanted.\n\nSuicide is a very prevalent issue in the trans community. The Trevor Project’s 2022 National Survey on LGBTQ Youth Mental Health found that 45% of LGBTQ youth seriously considered attempting suicide in the past year, including more than half (53%) of transgender and nonbinary youth. Nearly 1 in 5 transgender and nonbinary youth attempted suicide. However, LGBTQ youth who had access to an LGBTQ-affirming school reported lower rates of attempting suicide than those who did not. Additionally, learning about LGBTQ people or issues was associated with significantly lower odds (23%) of a past-year suicide attempt in LGBTQ students. \n\nTherefore, rejecting this transphobic policy would save lives. \n\nIn addition, a 2021 peer-reviewed study by The Trevor Project’s researchers found that transgender and nonbinary youth who reported gender identity acceptance from teachers and peers had significantly lower odds of attempting suicide in the past year. Transgender and nonbinary youth who reported having pronouns respected by all or most people in their lives attempted suicide at half the rate of those who did not have their pronouns respected.\n\nThis policy makes trans students feel unsafe and unwelcome at school, which would put them at a higher risk of committing suicide. \n\nI implore you to think carefully about the impact this policy would have on Virginia's children."}">I am opposed to this draft policy and want the VDOE to reject it. I myself am a nonbinary student living in Virginia, and this policy threatens me and my peers. I am especially concerned that this policy will force teachers to out students to their parents, which can be very unsafe for students with transphobic parents. I believe that this policy promotes a hostile learning environment, because it disrespects the identities of students who are trans and nonbinary.

As a transgender youth, I know how difficult it feels to be unsupported because of your identity. Transphobia negatively impacts the mental health of trans kids, and this policy supports transphobic ideas. Therefore, it harms trans students' mental health.

This policy prohibits teachers and school staff from supporting trans & nonbinary students, such as using a student’s affirming name & pronouns. One of my favorite teachers has been very supportive of my identity, and his support has helped me feel understood and more self-confident. I don't know what I would do without the supportive adults in my life. This policy prevents teachers from being supportive, which I am concerned will have a negative impact on transgender students. Without supportive teachers, I am very worried that trans students will feel alone and unwanted.

Suicide is a very prevalent issue in the trans community. The Trevor Project’s 2022 National Survey on LGBTQ Youth Mental Health found that 45% of LGBTQ youth seriously considered attempting suicide in the past year, including more than half (53%) of transgender and nonbinary youth. Nearly 1 in 5 transgender and nonbinary youth attempted suicide. However, LGBTQ youth who had access to an LGBTQ-affirming school reported lower rates of attempting suicide than those who did not. Additionally, learning about LGBTQ people or issues was associated with significantly lower odds (23%) of a past-year suicide attempt in LGBTQ students.

Therefore, rejecting this transphobic policy would save lives.

In addition, a 2021 peer-reviewed study by The Trevor Project’s researchers found that transgender and nonbinary youth who reported gender identity acceptance from teachers and peers had significantly lower odds of attempting suicide in the past year. Transgender and nonbinary youth who reported having pronouns respected by all or most people in their lives attempted suicide at half the rate of those who did not have their pronouns respected.

This policy makes trans students feel unsafe and unwelcome at school, which would put them at a higher risk of committing suicide.

I implore you to think carefully about the impact this policy would have on Virginia's children.


Oppose

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This bill is damaging to youth, teachers, families, and communities alike. It is an overreach of religion into the public sector.


Strongly oppose

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<p>I strongly oppose the anti-child policies for transgender youth in VA schools. These policies put our transgender and questioning youth at risk for no practice, proven reason. They are of no danger to themselves or others. Instead this policy puts them in danger solely for the governor’s political gain. Let children learn and grow unimpeded. </p>


Oppose

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Although I do not live in Virginia and am not a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I am an ally and have family members who are trans. I also have friends in different parts of Virginia, some of whom may be affected by this proposed plan. All that said, I found out about it via an Instagram story earlier today and as always with these types of things, I was appalled that anyone would willingly and voluntarily intend to harm children, strip them of their bodily autonomy and their right to identify as they wish, and deny them their rights as human beings simply because too many in our society want all of us to conform to strict social/gender norms. It is time to leave all of this behind and relegate it, and the rest of Governor Youngkin and the GOP's backwards agenda, to the dustbin of history where it belongs, if we are to move forward as a country and more importantly, as a species. This targeting of trans youth is silly and so are some of the ignorant, fear-mongering, hostile Archie Bunker comments I've seen on here in the brief time I've caught a glimpse."}">Although I do not live in Virginia and am not a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I am an ally and have family members who are trans. I also have friends in different parts of Virginia, some of whom may be affected by this proposed plan. All that said, I found out about it via an Instagram story earlier today and as always with these types of things, I was appalled that anyone would willingly and voluntarily intend to harm children, strip them of their bodily autonomy and their right to identify as they wish, and deny them their rights as human beings simply because too many in our society want all of us to conform to strict social/gender norms. It is time to leave all of this behind and relegate it, and the rest of Governor Youngkin and the GOP's backwards agenda, to the dustbin of history where it belongs, if we are to move forward as a country and more importantly, as a species. This targeting of trans youth is silly and so are some of the ignorant, fear-mongering, hostile Archie Bunker comments I've seen on here in the brief time I've caught a glimpse.


I Oppose This Harmful Policy

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<p>As a queer educator, I know firsthand how damaging policies like these can be on kids. We should be supporting our LGBTQ youth, not restricting their rights and putting them in harm's way. Outing trans students to their parents put those students at risk of being kicked out of their homes and resorting to self-harm. LGBTQ youth are more than four times as likely to attempt suicide than their peers (Johns et al., 2019; Johns et al., 2020). School should be a safe space for ALL kids. I adamantly oppose this harmful policy. </p>


VA Dept of Education policies

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Northam administration’s regulations need to be kept and unchanged in the Virginia Department of Education.

I, as a parent with children in public schools, find schools to be a safe place for my children with the policies that are in place. I whole heartedly support the department’s EdEquityVA

I do not need other religious affiliates, like my own Catholic church,  stating 'God-given rights' and referring to the Constitution to support their unaccepting biased beliefs.

I believe in separation of church and state. Look it up in the Constitution.

Sarah Alex


Do not discriminate against Trans Kids

I oppose the proposed changes to the DOE Guidance regarding the treatment of non-binary and trans students in Virginia Schools. I am the parent of an adult trans person and have been one of the facilitators of the Arlington PFLAG Community Group for 10 years. I have experienced both raising a trans-child as well as hearing the stories of countless other trans-folks and their parents. My experience tells me that all children and teens are on a journey of discovering who they are, and that for some this includes an exploration whether they feel that they exist outside of the gender binary. For those who find themselves non-binary or trans it is a very important insight into how they fit into the world, or don’t. Some of their parents are supportive and some aren’t. Non-gender-conforming children have a high rate of self-harm and suicidal ideation. They do much better if they have at least one supportive person in their lives. For some of these children school is the only place that they can search for and express the gender identity that best fits them. If they were to do so at home they would be rejected.It is therefor essential that we allow their exploration of their gender roles in the school setting, especially when they cannot do so at home.

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"I oppose the proposed changes to the DOE Guidance regarding the treatment of non-binary and trans students in Virginia Schools. \nI am the parent of an adult trans person and have been one of the facilitators of the Arlington PFLAG Community Group for 10 years. I have experienced both raising a trans-child as well as hearing the stories of countless other trans-folks and their parents.  My experience tells me that all children and teens are on a journey of discovering who they are, and that for some this includes an exploration whether they feel that they exist outside of the gender binary.  For those who find themselves non-binary or trans it is a very important insight into how they fit into the world, or don’t.  Some of their parents are supportive and some aren’t.  \nNon-gender-conforming children have a high rate of self-harm and suicidal ideation.  They do much better if they have at least one supportive person in their lives.  For some of these children school is the only place that they can search for and express the gender identity that best fits them.  If they were to do so at home they would be rejected.\nIt is therefor essential that we allow their exploration of their gender roles in the school setting, especially when they cannot do so at home. \n"}'>I oppose the proposed changes to the DOE Guidance regarding the treatment of non-binary and trans students in Virginia Schools.
I am the parent of an adult trans person and have been one of the facilitators of the Arlington PFLAG Community Group for 10 years. I have experienced both raising a trans-child as well as hearing the stories of countless other trans-folks and their parents. My experience tells me that all children and teens are on a journey of discovering who they are, and that for some this includes an exploration whether they feel that they exist outside of the gender binary. For those who find themselves non-binary or trans it is a very important insight into how they fit into the world, or don’t. Some of their parents are supportive and some aren’t.
Non-gender-conforming children have a high rate of self-harm and suicidal ideation. They do much better if they have at least one supportive person in their lives. For some of these children school is the only place that they can search for and express the gender identity that best fits them. If they were to do so at home they would be rejected.
It is therefor essential that we allow their exploration of their gender roles in the school setting, especially when they cannot do so at home.


Do not support these transphobic policies that will get children killed

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<p>If these policies are enacted, it will completely dehumanize trans and nonbinary students in our schools. There is a veritable link between lack of support for trans people and a rise in suicides of trans people. A child is not the property of their parents, they do not have a right to decide who their child is. Forcing a child into a life that is detrimental to their health and happiness is the opposite of what we as a society should be striving to do. </p>


Christian Nationalists MUST be Stopped

It's clear that Virginia's Governor is a Christian Nationalist. American Christian nationalism is a worldview based on the belief that America is superior to other countries, and that that superiority is divinely established. Governor Youngkin is following the agenda of Project Blitz.These extremists are leading a coordinated attack on LGBTQ+ rights, access to reproductive healthcare, and religious/non-religious equality across the breadth of the United States. In order to achieve these goals, the Project Blitz campaign arms state-level politicians with model bills, proclamations, and talking points through its legislative guide. Ultimately, Youngkin and his ilk want to dismantle the U.S. Constitution and replace it with sharia-like biblical law. This fascism needs to be stopped.

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"It's clear that Virginia's Governor is a Christian Nationalist. American Christian nationalism is a worldview based on the belief that America is superior to other countries, and that that superiority is divinely established. Governor Youngkin is following the agenda of Project Blitz.\n\nThese extremists are leading a coordinated attack on LGBTQ+ rights, access to reproductive healthcare, and religious/non-religious equality across the breadth of the United States. In order to achieve these goals, the Project Blitz campaign arms state-level politicians with model bills, proclamations, and talking points through its legislative guide. Ultimately, Youngkin and his ilk want to dismantle the U.S. Constitution and replace it with sharia-like biblical law. \n\nThis fascism needs to be stopped.\n\n"}">It's clear that Virginia's Governor is a Christian Nationalist. American Christian nationalism is a worldview based on the belief that America is superior to other countries, and that that superiority is divinely established. Governor Youngkin is following the agenda of Project Blitz.

These extremists are leading a coordinated attack on LGBTQ+ rights, access to reproductive healthcare, and religious/non-religious equality across the breadth of the United States. In order to achieve these goals, the Project Blitz campaign arms state-level politicians with model bills, proclamations, and talking points through its legislative guide. Ultimately, Youngkin and his ilk want to dismantle the U.S. Constitution and replace it with sharia-like biblical law.

This fascism needs to be stopped.


Strongly opposed

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<p>Strongly opposed to these guidelines mis-named as supporting parental rights. These guidelines will only serve to single out and stigmatize already vulnerable students. I have worked in schools and participated in public education as a school board member. I have personally seen gay and trans Middle and High schoolers accepted by their peers but rejected by their own families.  Today's young people seem to have greater acceptance of differences and fluid identities.  To impose these parental rights on a generation that has come much further in their thinking than their parents is taking a step backwards.  The basis for this thinking appears to be religious,  and religion has no place in public education. Being a kid is hard enough and confusing enough. Please don't make it any harder with this type of policy. </p>


Oppose


Biology matters. Stop lying to our children.

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Transgenderism is a mental disorder that has no place in our schools. Biology teaches us that you are what you were born as. Boys and girl are biologically different, and it is scientifically impossible for one to become the other.

Stop teaching our children these delusional ideas. Biology matters.


Strongly opposed to state endorsed child abuse

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I am strongly opposed to the state endorsing their employers to out trans children to their possibly transphobic parents. Trans kids will always sometimes be born to vicious hateful parents but the state shouldn’t help guarantee their abuse…I’m trans, transitioned years ago, still am a tax paying, contributing member of society and every person who has ever thrown hurdles in my path towards seeking gender affirming care has done so from a place of hatred ( it’s fear and misunderstanding…but those things lead to hatred)

being in support of this is being in support of government intervention in families…careful


I OPPOSE the draft policy

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As a volunteer in an after school program for 5th graders, I interact with students every week who support and lift one another up. This draft policy is harmful to students' mental well being, safety, and ultimately their ability to comfortably learn in the classroom. I oppose the draft policy and urge VDOE to vote against it.


Support Pro-Parent Education

My children are all grown, but I have grandchildren.  Their parents, along with me, have no desire for them to learn such nonsense as Critical Race Theory, Transgenderism, or ANYTHING sexual. That should be left up to the parents, as should religion (for or against).  There are just some things that are personal, and left for those who love their children unconditionally.  The teachers should be focusing on reading, writing, and arithmetic, civics would be nice, as well, so corruption of our Constitution could be recognized!!  All the garbage that the far-left is trying to incorporate into our educational system is satanic, and only meant to divide our once great nation. We are now lowering everyone to the lowest benchmark.  Our nation is no longer among the highest in education.  We are turning out uneducated, uninformed, people who cannot function in society!  It is obvious that through the teacher union, bribes from corrupt governors, and school boards who pay no attention to parents' wishes are to blame. We are becoming a nation of idiots.  PLEASE put education curriculums back into the hands of the parents.  Monitor schools and teachers. Bring common sense back! Please, help Virginia become sane again!

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My children are all grown, but I have grandchildren.  Their parents, along with me, have no desire for them to learn such nonsense as Critical Race Theory, Transgenderism, or ANYTH
ING sexual. That should be left up to the parents, as should religion (for or against).  There are just some things that are personal, and left for those who love their children unconditionally.  The teachers should be focusing on reading, writing, and arithmetic, civics would be nice, as well, so corruption of our Constitution could be recognized!!  All the garbage that the far-left is trying to incorporate into our educational system is satanic, and only meant to divide our once great nation. We are now lowering everyone to the lowest benchmark.  Our nation is no longer among the highest in education.  We are turning out uneducated, uninformed, people who cannot function in society!  It is obvious that through the teacher union, bribes from corrupt governors, and school boards who pay no attention to parents' wishes are to blame. We are becoming a nation of idiots.  PLEASE put education curriculums back into the hands of the parents.  Monitor schools and teachers. Bring common sense back! Please, help Virginia become sane again!


Protect ALL students

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"I strongly OPPOSE this guidance. \nYoungkin is not smarter than the AMA, APA, students, teachers, school staff, and parents. He will never and has never dealt with trans issues in his personal life. He has no idea what all these trans students go through. \nThey just want to be accepted by their peers and he’s making it impossible to be their true authentic selves at the most important place of their lives, school. \nFaith is not public policy. This is setting transgendered students to be bullied in school, and feel unwelcome in what should be a safe space for every Virginia child. "}'>I strongly OPPOSE this guidance.
Youngkin is not smarter than the AMA, APA, students, teachers, school staff, and parents. He will never and has never dealt with trans issues in his personal life. He has no idea what all these trans students go through.
They just want to be accepted by their peers and he’s making it impossible to be their true authentic selves at the most important place of their lives, school.
Faith is not public policy. This is setting transgendered students to be bullied in school, and feel unwelcome in what should be a safe space for every Virginia child.


Oppose

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I disapprove of this action


Oppose

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I oppose guidance, this is an ignorant law. The government should be doing something better with there time.


Oppose the 2022 Model Policies

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<p>I strongly oppose the proposed changes to Model Policies for treatment of Trans students in our schools. I am a parent with kids in Virginia public middle and high schools. My kids have a very diverse friend group including kids who are gender non-conforming. Getting to know those kids over the last few years has really changed my perspective. They are lovely, sensitive, thoughtful, deserving young humans. This is the time in their lives when they get to know themselves and explore how they want to live in this world. They need respect and support from the influential adults in their lives, including teachers and school administrators. And all the students need adults to model open, positive, respectful behavior toward everyone, especially folks in the Rainbow Community. </p>


This is wrong! Protect all children!

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<p>All children deserve a safe place in which to learn! Protect Virginia children by supporting equal rights for all. </p>


Strongly Support

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I strongly support Governor Youngkin's proposal.  Parental rights are enshrined in the Virginia constitution, and his proposals strike a delicate balance while affirming these rights.


Stop this terrible policy.

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<p>Trans kids will die because of this ridiculous policy. Youngkin is attempting murder for political expediency. Disgusting. </p>


Support 100%

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As a parent and educator I know what is best for my own children and expect the right to practice that in all aspects of their life especially in school.


Please support

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Please support parents rights to raise their own children and not the schools.


Oppose

Dear Governor Younkin, I’d like to discuss the possible policies that will be put into place about trans youth rights. Trans youth are at a higher risk for suicide than most other youth. They are 7.6 times more likely to attempt suicide. 82% of trans people in general have considered committing suicide, and 40% of trans people have attempted suicide, the higher end of these attempts being within trans youth specifically. This is in great part due to the deadnaming and misgendering that they face on a daily bases. Implementing these new policies will cause these suicide rates to sky rocket, causing many to lose their children, siblings, cousins, students, friends, etc. Everyone deserves a place to feel welcome and safe, and to be able to be themselves. Imagine you woke up everyday feeling like you were in the wrong body. Imagine you didn’t have anyone to tell about how you felt, because you were afraid it might get back to you're parents and you’ll just end up being deadnamed and misgendered. Imagine feeling so hopeless and uncomfortable in your own body that you feel like committing suicide is the only way out. When trans youth are made to feel welcome, all of these things could be solved. So please, if you care about the youth, teens, CITIZENS OF THIS STATE at ALL, please DO NOT PASS THESE POLICIES. Everyone deserves the right to feel welcome and safe.Thank you greatly.Sincerely, A concerned citizen.

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Dear Governor Younkin, \n\nI’d like to discuss the possible policies that will be put into place about trans youth rights. Trans youth are at a higher risk for suicide than most other youth. They are 7.6 times more likely to attempt suicide. 82% of trans people in general have considered committing suicide, and 40% of trans people have attempted suicide, the higher end of these attempts being within trans youth specifically. This is in great part due to the deadnaming and misgendering that they face on a daily bases. Implementing these new policies will cause these suicide rates to sky rocket, causing many to lose their children, siblings, cousins, students, friends, etc. Everyone deserves a place to feel welcome and safe, and to be able to be themselves. Imagine you woke up everyday feeling like you were in the wrong body. Imagine you didn’t have anyone to tell about how you felt, because you were afraid it might get back to you're parents and you’ll just end up being deadnamed and misgendered. Imagine feeling so hopeless and uncomfortable in your own body that you feel like committing suicide is the only way out. When trans youth are made to feel welcome, all of these things could be solved. So please, if you care about the youth, teens, CITIZENS OF THIS STATE at ALL, please DO NOT PASS THESE POLICIES. Everyone deserves the right to feel welcome and safe.\n\nThank you greatly.\n\nSincerely, \nA concerned citizen."}">Dear Governor Younkin,

I’d like to discuss the possible policies that will be put into place about trans youth rights. Trans youth are at a higher risk for suicide than most other youth. They are 7.6 times more likely to attempt suicide. 82% of trans people in general have considered committing suicide, and 40% of trans people have attempted suicide, the higher end of these attempts being within trans youth specifically. This is in great part due to the deadnaming and misgendering that they face on a daily bases. Implementing these new policies will cause these suicide rates to sky rocket, causing many to lose their children, siblings, cousins, students, friends, etc. Everyone deserves a place to feel welcome and safe, and to be able to be themselves. Imagine you woke up everyday feeling like you were in the wrong body. Imagine you didn’t have anyone to tell about how you felt, because you were afraid it might get back to you're parents and you’ll just end up being deadnamed and misgendered. Imagine feeling so hopeless and uncomfortable in your own body that you feel like committing suicide is the only way out. When trans youth are made to feel welcome, all of these things could be solved. So please, if you care about the youth, teens, CITIZENS OF THIS STATE at ALL, please DO NOT PASS THESE POLICIES. Everyone deserves the right to feel welcome and safe.

Thank you greatly.

Sincerely,
A concerned citizen.


Thank you

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<p>If schools continue to try to deny parental rights and break down the family unit, the mental health of an en entire generation of children will be at stake. I am very grateful for these model policies that begin to put our schools back on the right path for securing privacy, safety and dignity for our students and respect for the sanctity of family and parental rights. </p>


Oppose

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I oppose this transphobic bill.


Strongly Oppose

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<p>Trans kids’ lives are already extremely hard. This policy would make them remarkably worse, leading to even more self-harm and suicide. Please truly protect children by leaving the current policy in place. </p>


Strongly Opposed: Protect Trans and Non-Binary Kids

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These proposed model policies are contrary to state law and will be extremely harmful to transgender and nonbinary kids. Protect trans and nonbinary kids. RESCIND these model policies.

If you want parents to be able to decide whether or not their kids should wear masks in school, parents should also be allowed to decide how their children identify in school. You either trust parents to know what's best for their kids or you don't stop cherry picking.


Oppose

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I oppose Younkin's student policy. I know of a trams youth that is not out at home and this would be DANGEROUS for them. We need to protect trans youth just as much, if not more than we protect cis youth!


Oppose

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"I am an educator who is opposed to Governor Glenn Youngkin's 2022 Anti-Transgender Student Policy.  Every student's successful progress depends on the ability to build strength and confidence in an environment that establishes a sense of belonging.  It is a basic human need.  The future of the earth and all life depends on developing the talents and abilities of every student.  This policy creates a hostile and potentially dangerous school environment, and it can prevent students from achieving their full potential."}">I am an educator who is opposed to Governor Glenn Youngkin's 2022 Anti-Transgender Student Policy. Every student's successful progress depends on the ability to build strength and confidence in an environment that establishes a sense of belonging. It is a basic human need. The future of the earth and all life depends on developing the talents and abilities of every student. This policy creates a hostile and potentially dangerous school environment, and it can prevent students from achieving their full potential.


Oppose

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"Injustice done to one is a threat to justice for everyone else. I cannot emphasize enough how selfish and inhumane it is to take away rights from humans because they do not fit the version of “criteria” or “society” people in “power” want to see. Politics is no longer for the people but allows people with close-minded and narrow perspectives to enforce laws and policies that create a community that satisfies them. It is not our job to judge or belittle anyone for what they want to do with their life, but we should educate and support them. This bill teaches students and people to judge and place everyone into categories that should define who they are, rather than allowing students to take control of their own life and experiences. Students are not made to be molded into what society wants and expects they deserve the freedom to express and be themselves. We should be working toward a more inclusive society rather than a backward one. Trans lives matter and they should not be subject to any less because they don’t fit the governor’s norms. This bill is nothing less than human pride and the needs to always be right and powerful above all else. SMH"}'>Injustice done to one is a threat to justice for everyone else. I cannot emphasize enough how selfish and inhumane it is to take away rights from humans because they do not fit the version of “criteria” or “society” people in “power” want to see. Politics is no longer for the people but allows people with close-minded and narrow perspectives to enforce laws and policies that create a community that satisfies them. It is not our job to judge or belittle anyone for what they want to do with their life, but we should educate and support them. This bill teaches students and people to judge and place everyone into categories that should define who they are, rather than allowing students to take control of their own life and experiences. Students are not made to be molded into what society wants and expects they deserve the freedom to express and be themselves. We should be working toward a more inclusive society rather than a backward one. Trans lives matter and they should not be subject to any less because they don’t fit the governor’s norms. This bill is nothing less than human pride and the needs to always be right and powerful above all else. SMH


OPPOSED

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I oppose this policy. Trans rights are human rights.


I OPPOSE the guidance


I support trans rights

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<p>Support trans, GOPs are discriminatory </p>


Educator STRONGLY OPPOSES this bill

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When a trans child does not have support/acceptance/affirmation of their identity at home, finding that support/acceptance/affirmation at school can be the difference between life and death. I STRONGLY oppose this bill as it will endanger trans youth, who are already at such a high risk of suicide, assault, homelessness, etc.


Oppose


100% support the Governor!

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There are only two genders as created by God.  These confused children need help and guidance.


Oppose

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I OPPOSE the draft policy/guidance and want the VDOE to reject them. We should be supporting our LGBTQ+ kids in any way we can!


Trans rights are human rights!

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Trans rights are human rights!


Support all Children!

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<p>All children deserve our support. All children deserve a safe place in which to learn. Trans rights are human rights. </p>


Oppose

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As a parent of children in Virginia public schools, I strongly oppose this harmful policy.


Parental Rights supports children's safety

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The new policies honor the sacred role of parents in the care of their children during school, athletics and other activities.

Parents know their children’s needs better than anyone. If children are struggling with gender dysphoria, they need guidance and emotional support from parents. Under the new policies, school officials must keep parents fully informed, and require schools to enforce laws, regulations and policies that prohibit and deter bullying or harassment.

Student participation in sex-specific athletics, school activities and events should be determined by sex, e.g., for overnight travel accommodations and locker rooms.

Students should use the bathrooms that correspond to their sex. Single-user bathrooms and facilities should be made available in accessible areas and provided with appropriate signage, indicating accessibility for all students.

The new policies protect the fundamental religious liberty interests of personnel and students


Strongly Oppose this policy

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Governor Youngkin & the GOP are harming the most vulnerable members of our society. Strongly oppose this bigotry and hatred! Vote these evil people out of power!


How Dare We Out These Kids!!!!

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"I vehemently oppose the VDOE policies proposed.  I am a proud lesbian woman, lifelong Virginian, and I speak out on behalf of the hundreds of thousands of youth attending VA schools with a potential target on their backs.  It is not an easy road for anyone to come out to their families, friends, classmates, etc.  Many of us fear for our lives.  This may sound extreme, but such policies could literally mean life or death for many.  Our school environment should be one condusive for learning and free from the added stress of being outed or worse, physically harmed.  We want and deserve a safe, affirming space for all of our kids to learn."}'>I vehemently oppose the VDOE policies proposed. I am a proud lesbian woman, lifelong Virginian, and I speak out on behalf of the hundreds of thousands of youth attending VA schools with a potential target on their backs. It is not an easy road for anyone to come out to their families, friends, classmates, etc. Many of us fear for our lives. This may sound extreme, but such policies could literally mean life or death for many. Our school environment should be one condusive for learning and free from the added stress of being outed or worse, physically harmed. We want and deserve a safe, affirming space for all of our kids to learn.


Parents Have the Right to Be Parents to Their Kids, Not the Government

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In Virginia, parents have the right to be informed about and particpate in decisions that impact the care, education and upbringing of their children by virtue of VA Code Section 1-240.1.  The 14th Amendment to the US Constitution provides that noone shall be deprived of life, liberty or property without due process of law.  The US Supreme Court has held that "parents have a fundamental right to controll the upbringing of their children" acknowledging that the Constitutional right to "liberty" includes parents' interest in the care, education and upbringing of their children.  The primary issue at hand is whether parents are being deprived of their Constitutional right to be a parent to their children instead of having such role supplanted by the Government.


I Oppose the Guidance

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As a parent, I believe this policy will unnecessarily cause catastrophic mental health issues in our children. VA can and must do better!


Oppose

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I oppose the 2022 guidance. I support trans students and their privacy.


Strongly support Gov. Youngkin's new 2022 policies for schools

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<p>When did the schools start raising and paying for our children?  Children are their parents' responsibility and they should not be left out when a child is making decisions that can affect their life. I strongly support the new 2022 school policies that Gov. Youngkin is putting in place. </p>


Study FFL and lift weights > library

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We do not need to waste time in a library, we need our children learning how to play Fantasy Football and lifting weights.


I support transgender rights and oppose the 2022 model

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"The 2022 model is EXTREMELY damaging to students that struggle with gender identify issues since it forces them out in the open.  Children need time and space to process complicated life challenges and forcing under this strict model will only accelerate their potential mental struggles.  For LGBT+ individuals, this often leads to increased behavior struggles that will show themselves in destructive actions.  \n\nI have seen this first hand through working with teenagers and would be ashamed to see Virginia move to this non-inclusive model.  "}'>The 2022 model is EXTREMELY damaging to students that struggle with gender identify issues since it forces them out in the open. Children need time and space to process complicated life challenges and forcing under this strict model will only accelerate their potential mental struggles. For LGBT+ individuals, this often leads to increased behavior struggles that will show themselves in destructive actions.

I have seen this first hand through working with teenagers and would be ashamed to see Virginia move to this non-inclusive model.


Oppose the policy


Trans rights are human rights

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Trans rights are human rights. No child should feel unsafe in school and fear that they will be misgendered or have their rights taken away for being trans.


This is nonsense and of the lowest importance in Virginia. We don't want Virginia to be Texas!

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<p>I strongly disavow this legislation. It has nothing to do with our schools, and we should be working towards supporting our public schools and public school teachers. This is catering to a small (but vocal) minority that wants to destroy public education and this is their step 1. Virginia public schools are consistently ranked as some of the best due in part to their diversity of ideas and inclusiveness. </p>


Strongly Oppose this guidance

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<p>I'm a parent of a transgender teen. The support that her high school's leadership and staff have given her during her transition has been crucial for her well-being.  As parents, knowing that she will not be discriminated against at school by teachers or the administration is a huge weight lifted off our shoulders.  This journey is hard enough as it is.  Please do not make it harder for transgender students to receive the support and care they deserve as human beings.  </p>


Support New Policy

I support the new policy. The two priorities for schools are: improving education and ensuring a safe environment for our kids. Teachers need to teach and parents need to raise their own children.


I OPPOSE THE GUIDANCE

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As a teacher, a parent, and an ally to the LGBTQ+ community, I oppose the guidance proposed.


Oppose Guidance Restricting Student Personal and Religious Rights

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The proposed Guiding Principles and Sample Policy is very flawed. While rightly asserting that parents have a critical role to play in decision-making for their children and their children's education, the Guiding Principles and Sample Policy restricts the rights of students to have their gender identity, preferred names, and preferred pronouns used by school staff. Schools should respect the personal and religious beliefs of students and recognize that these may differ from their parents. Forcing students to adhere to the personal and religious beliefs of their parents in the school environment is an unlawful abridgment of student's constitutional and legal rights and is a form of discrimination. Requiring school staff to address and treat students in a way that aligns with the wishes of the student's parents but actively causes the student distress or discomfit is morally and legally wrong. Virginia public schools should be a safe and welcoming environment for students especially if the personal and religious beliefs of those students conflicts with those of their parents. The school should not add stress and harm to the students by recreating a potentially hostile and negative home environment within the school system. Similarly, school staff should have enough respect and empathy for their students that they follow the student's preferred gender identity, name, and pronouns. Failing to do so is active discrimination and should not be tolerated, much less encouraged. The proposed model policy fails to protect students' personal and religious belief and could cause active harm to students if implemented. I strongly oppose this guidance.


Oppose

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I fully support the trans community, especially at universities where the most critical and important learning experiences take place. Having that sense of safety and security should be a universal right for everyone, including the trans community.


Support Governor’s Parental Rights

• The new policies honor the sacred role of parents in the care of their children during school, athletics and other activities.• Parents know their children’s needs better than anyone. If children are struggling with gender dysphoria, they need guidance and emotional support from parents. Under the new policies, school officials must keep parents fully informed, and require schools to enforce laws, regulations and policies that prohibit and deter bullying or harassment.• Student participation in sex-specific athletics, school activities and events should be determined by sex, e.g., for overnight travel accommodations and locker rooms.• Students should use the bathrooms that correspond to their sex. Single-user bathrooms and facilities should be made available in accessible areas and provided with appropriate signage, indicating accessibility for all students.• The new policies protect the fundamental religious liberty interests of personnel and students.

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• The new policies honor the sacred role of parents in the care of their children during school, athletics and other activities.
• Parents know their children’s needs better than anyone. If children are struggling with gender dysphoria, they need guidance and emotional support from parents. Under the new policies, school officials must keep parents fully informed, and require schools to enforce laws, regulations and policies that prohibit and deter bullying or harassment.
• Student participation in sex-specific athletics, school activities and events should be determined by sex, e.g., for overnight travel accommodations and locker rooms.
• Students should use the bathrooms that correspond to their sex. Single-user bathrooms and facilities should be made available in accessible areas and provided with appropriate signage, indicating accessibility for all students.
• The new policies protect the fundamental religious liberty interests of personnel and students.


Supporting Governor Youngkin.

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Thank you Gov Youngkin for the great start to turn Virginia around.


Stop destroying our culture

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We have allowed a few radicals to hijack our society and we must stop it.

Our rules in schools protect everyone from bullying and discrimination. There is no need to give one group special treatment. Treat all students the same, stop the teachers from indoctrinating our children into hate.


Opposed

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This policy is bad for students, their learning environments, and their physical and mental health. It runs contrary to mental health and medical guidance.


Stop HURTING innocent youth.

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This proposed policy is ridiculous and I oppose it. If this had been released nearly 5 months ago, I would've been kicked out of my household, relinquished to the streets, disowned. I cannot believe how much humanity has gone BACKWARDS in time rather than forward.

Your homophobia and transphobia IS NOT more important than innocent youth lives. Grow up.


Oppose

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"I support trans people in my community at any age. LGBTQ youth are more than four times as likely to attempt suicide than their peers (Johns et al., 2019; Johns et al., 2020). \n\nAs an older member of the LGBTQ community, I know that growing up in the south as an 'other' is already very difficult. Especially when you are raised in a rural, religious community with religious parents. I did not come out to my parents until I was 29. That was the right decision. If I had been forcibly outed to my parents as a teenager I would have been disowned and left essentially homeless. (Even now looking back I'm certain I would have been put in the foster system.) \n\nYoungkin wants to take away these kids right to secrecy, which can be so important to their safety. This policy will drive up the teenage suicide rate. There are parents that will be supportive, but not all. Give these kids the right to choose how they handle their family situation. "}">I support trans people in my community at any age. LGBTQ youth are more than four times as likely to attempt suicide than their peers (Johns et al., 2019; Johns et al., 2020).

As an older member of the LGBTQ community, I know that growing up in the south as an 'other' is already very difficult. Especially when you are raised in a rural, religious community with religious parents. I did not come out to my parents until I was 29. That was the right decision. If I had been forcibly outed to my parents as a teenager I would have been disowned and left essentially homeless. (Even now looking back I'm certain I would have been put in the foster system.)

Youngkin wants to take away these kids right to secrecy, which can be so important to their safety. This policy will drive up the teenage suicide rate. There are parents that will be supportive, but not all. Give these kids the right to choose how they handle their family situation.


Parents’ rights

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<p>I fully support Youngkin’s policy.  Parents are the primary educators of their children, and thus, should have the final say in what happens to and is taught to their children.  </p>


Kids are still exploring the world and identity

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Children’s right to be kids and explore the world and what they want to be who they are in the moment (gender is what they are born as, not the “jobs or chores” expected of them as society has been pushing them into. If a boy wants to wear dresses and play with dolls then he will grow up to be a wonderful father 1 day, if a girl wants to grow up and be a firefighter or in the military serving our country, she can still hold up a household if she so chooses… STOP pushing gender expectations on children who are still exploring their world and everything in it


Oppose

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By passing this legislation, our government is demeaning a biological fact that some people are born with higher amounts of either estrogen or testosterone in a body that does not correspond. Being transgender is a biological fact, but by Youngkin’s logic, prejudice should be put before truth.


Disgraceful

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<p>I strongly oppose Governor Youngkin’s transphobic proposal. </p>


Students before Politics!

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Throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia, educators and school leaders work to provide all students with a high-quality education. As a part of that work, educators strive to meet the individual needs of each student, regardless of need, situation or personality.

Previously, the Virginia Department of Education (the “Department”) recognizes that each child is a unique and endowed by God with unique abilities and characteristics. All students DESERVE to attend school in an environment free from discrimination, harassment, or bullying. However, this policy – pushed only to achieve political gains for Governor Youngkin – disregards the humanity and God-given potential of students because of their gender identity and/or expression.

This policy is politically motivated and hateful. This policy has no place in Virginia schools and should be immediately abandoned by the Department because a host of reasons, most notably the negative impact it will have on the learning potential of thousands of trans and non-binary students in the Commonwealth.

I respectfully ask the Governor and Department to put student before national political headlines. Please do not make Virginia the laughingstock of the nation and instead re-affirm the Department’s 2021 policy.


Wrong for Va.: Proposal is Hateful and Un-American Attack on the Trans Community and Free Expression

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Dear VDOE, Youngkin Administration, and fellow Virginians:

My name is Angelo Cocchiaro. I am a young professional living in Arlington, and a concerned Virginian. I am writing to state that the proposed Model Policies should not be adopted. The changes as it relates to trans students would undermine and repress Virginia's learners, undercut Virginia's efforts to move away from our discriminatory past, and would hurt all of us, not just those directly affected.

The prelude to all of this is the heightened intensity and rancor of anti-trans culture warriors since 2021. Governor Youngkin himself campaigned with two hands firmly on the lightning rod of that anti-trans moral panic. The headline changes proposed in this plan emerged from the Youngkin Administration's determination to wage a culture war over Virginia's public schools. It is not the first time public officials have tried to do this. Recall, in 2016, when some of our neighbors to the south in North Carolina attempted to curtail trans students' rights with their infamous "bathroom bill." That policy was widely condemned, cost the then-Governor his job, and cost North Carolinians even more: a mammoth $3.7 billion sum in lost business. When I say this hateful attack will cost us all—this is what I am talking about. We should fully expect that Virginia will suffer similarly if the governor has his way.

I also want to center those most harmed by Governor Youngkin's proposed plan—our trans youth. They are here. They are us. They are not going anywhere. I'm struck by the troubling worldview revealed by Governor Youngkin's recent comments to Jake Tapper on CNN. The governor said, "Children do not belong to the state. Children belong to families." The comment seems mundane enough, but when placed in the proper context of his proposed plan, it becomes very clear what the governor thinks: children should be considered the property of their parents, no matter how unaccepting, bigoted, or dangerous those parents may be. Does this belief in total, complete obedience to parents come from a deeply held worldview? Unlikely. The "parents' rights" framing, rather, is simply the easiest way for the governor and his allies to press their agenda of forcing trans and queer youth into the closet and out of Virginia's future. The "parents' rights" supporters conveniently ignore any rights the students might possess themselves. This is not abstract. The Trevor Project finds nearly half of LGBTQ+ youth have seriously contemplated suicide in the past year, far higher than youth overall. Not an abstraction. The made-for-TV (or perhaps more accurately, made-for-Iowa) policies are, it turns out, all too real. Under the plan, LGBTQ+ can be forcibly outed to their parents. This can and does result in violence, disownment, homeless for LGBTQ+ kids. Proceeding with this policy after hearing all the facts would demonstrate that Governor Youngkin prefers kids be dead than trans. There is a chance still to avoid all of this.

The inclusionary values we share as Virginians call upon all of us to oppose this policy. The fact of the matter is we would become a pariah if Governor Youngkin gets his way. Virginia will be looked at differently going forward. Maybe the New South isn't so new after all, they'll say. How much has the capital of the Confederacy really changed? They will ask. I am proud of my fellow Virginians for their outpouring of support for trans youth in the last 30 days and clear opposition to this plan. My only remaining hope is that Governor Youngkin and VDOE will listen.

Support Queer Youth. ???????????


Strongly oppose policy change

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The proposed policy changes are harmful and demeaning to LGBT people and students.

There must be a better way to balance "parental rights" with the right of LGBT students to identify themselves as dictated by their conscience. It is an unfortunate reality that far too many LGBT and other non-cis students do not have loving and supportive families, and for those students, allies at school may be the only people they can trust and turn to for guidance and support. This policy change would erode that last bastion of protection for our most vulnerable young people, and would almost inevitably lead to worse outcomes for LGBT youth, up to and including increased risk of suicide. In short, the proposed policy change undermines the dignity and humanity of LGBT youth, and provides no benefit or improvement in return.

There is no good reason to abandon the 2021 Model Policy. The attempt to turn away from that policy will harm children, and is based on nothing more than prejudice and narrow-mindedness. The department should not adopt the proposed changes.


Protect our children and parental rights!

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I support Gov Youngkin and his proposed policies.


I support this

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What sex you were born with is WHAT YOU ARE!!


Stongly oppose!!

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<p>We need to respect the rights for everyone to make their own decisions and have the freedom to live their own lives accordingly. </p>


Strongly Oppose - Protect Trans Kids

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These new guidelines are not only unconstitutional, but immoral. As a trans student, I should not have to lead walkouts to protect the rights of myself and all students in Virginia. We take college level classes and are expected to push ourselves academically. Treating us like college students means that you need to allow us the freedom to choose how we live and identify in schools. How do you expect us to do well in school when we are denied the right to happiness and some may be denied a home? No one's rights are advanced when a Queer student is denied a home for being Queer. These regulations not only take away from Queer students but all students, as parents being able to opt a child out of counseling is absolutely inhumane. I understand the importance of parental rights but not to this extent. There are parents who do not understand how bad students mental health can get. Not allowing students to be in counseling will be disastrous and not only will decrease academic performance, but life will be lost over this. Can we really afford to lose any more students to mental illness? Is that a risk you want to take? Not to mention that LGBTQ youth suicide rates are already much higher than other groups of people. What did we do to deserve this kind of treatment from people whose jobs are to protect us? We are students. Not a way to advance political opinions.  We deserve the right to privacy and happiness.


Support the policy change

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I strongly support the administration changing the model policy in order to keep parents informed regarding their child(ren)'s status and health. There is no reason for the schools to be secret keepers, especially when the changing of children's names in the school system means that there are legally binding documents (like IEPs) and records that do not actually refer to a legally recognized person.

If we have reason to believe the child will be abused or kicked out of their home because of their trans status, there are generally other signs that should warrant a call to CPS rather than hiding information from the parent. A parent that is simply unsupportive or skeptical, believing that it's a social contagion or phase to outwait or a response to trauma or is from other mental health issues, is not abusive and almost certainly knows better than the school.


Strongly oppose proposed changes

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I support the physical and mental well-being of trans youth. The proposed guidance document actively works against the basic dignity and respect that ALL youth should be afforded in the public school system.


Transgender is to be taught as a clinical depression. Nothing more.

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Teaching a student about the disability Gender dsyphoria is a clinical significant stress or impairment. This should be taught and explained as a disability. Not. A choice to be made.

In social science, transgenders should be explained as a disability and important figures who overcame their disability.

Being transgender should not be indulged in as a fad or an escape. If lessons are to be studied then these shluld be quick lessons and magnify the confusion. Transgenders should treated as a normal person for their disability as much as an ADHD person. Of which medication or therapy is provided.


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I stand with trans kids, strongly oppose this policy


Protect LGBTQ youth

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Please protect all youth. How would you feel if this was your child being put at risk? You’re worried about what name they go by, how they view the physical body they live in, what bathroom use? I hope and pray none of you ever have to try to deal with losing a child especially by taking their own life. Will it really matter to you then what name your child wanted to be called?


Thank you Governor Youngkin!

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<p>I truly hope that this new pro-parent policies will be implemented. </p>


Oppose

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I OPPOSE the new guidance.


Totally oppose

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I am commenting as a parent of two children who went through the Virginia public school system.  It infuriates me that the state is wasting time and energy on such an initiative.  Why does it matter so much what anyone calls themselves?  Why does it offend someone's 'beliefs' if another human chooses to express themselves differently than you do?  Why would it be so awful to teach and model human compassion, understanding and tolerance?   What do students (and they are the most important stakeholders in any public school policy decision) stand to lose if a classmate or teammate chooses to use a different pronoun?  This policy not only sends the message that something is wrong with people with different sexualities, it does so not to address any identified problem in the school system.  It is an insultingly mean and hateful ploy of the governor and lieutenant governor to earn approval of the right-wing supporters here and nationwide (as Youngkin spends more time campaigning out west than working here).

I would suggest that the Department of Education focus on REAL problems that need REAL solutions, like the worsening proficiency of students in basic elements like reading and writing, like gun violence that traumatizes students much more than a classmate who feels more comfortable going by they/them, like supporting teachers with resources and compensation that will show they are appreciated!

As a registered nurse I interact with and care for people all the time whose beliefs differ from mine.  And it all turns out ok! I don't feel threatened at all!  Maybe it's time today's politicians and 'christians' let tomorrow's adults learn that lesson too.


Oppose!!

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<p>Trans Rights ARE Human Rights! </p>


Protect trans kids


Strongly Support!

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<p>Fully support Youngkin and VDOE!  It is about time there is a stop to this. </p>


Si a la vida

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<p>Not gender ideology at our schools, no more abortions and religions freedom </p>


I Strongly Oppose

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All students should feel safe in schools.  This policy will harm transgender and nonbinary students, as well as students simply exploring their own identity.  School is a place for students to explore who they are, not a surveillance service for parents.


Totally SUPPORT the new proposed Policies and Governor Youngkin.

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<p>It's time to turn VA around for better place to live. </p>


This model policy harms kids!

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<p>This model policy makes schools unsafe for kids and will cause children to die. </p>


Strongly oppose

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<p>As a parent and Virginia resident, I am strongly opposed to the proposed guidance. All students should be treated with respect in schools, which includes using their preferred name and pronouns. Insisting that teachers do otherwise and forcing students to use facilities not in line with their gender identity creates an unsafe and hostile environment for a group already at high risk for bullying, violence, depression, and suicide. </p>


Strongly oppose

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<p>Please do not enforce this ridiculous ban. You're going to kill trans kids. You're going to allow them to be bullied and teachers will be defenseless. If parents really don't want their kids to be around anyone different, then they can pay for them to go to private school. Public school is federally funded and people's voices should be heard. </p>


100% Support

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I fully support the revision of the model policies.  This change will allow for parents to have a voice in their child's education and will be positive for ALL students.


In Support of Proposed Changes

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<p>I am a public school educator, and I strongly SUPPORT Governor Youngkin's model guidelines that keep parents informed when their children are struggling with their gender identity at school!  </p>


Protect trans kids

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<p>Trans children should be respected and allowed to live their lives without others forcing their religious or political views on them. They should be respected and supported just like any other child. </p>


As a parent of a student in VA public schools, I oppose the rule changes

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I knew some will say the fear mongering is being blown out of proportion and that this is merely a requirement to allow parents to have a say in their child's education, but that is also disingenuous.

Kids should not be told they are defective or be forced to decide between being themselves or appeasing their parents. The truth is, no matter how you slice it, children will die if these rules go into effect. Suicide rates will increase among youth who are unable to be accepted for who they are at home AND at school.

I beg you not to implement these rules. Fight some other culture war. Don't make the children the pawns. That's just cruel.


Trans rights are human rights

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Let Trans kids live we're not hurting you by simply being trans. Let us be able to have a safe space in school if home isn't.


Fully Support Common Sense Policy

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Fully Support Common Sense Policy 100%


Against this!

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Kids should be able to express themselves and should not fear school


DO NOT SUPPLANT THE ROLE OF PARENTS

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The government will never be as vested in the outcome of a child.


SUPPORT 100%

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I strongly support the governors policy!  Parents should have all the rights relating to ANYTHING a minor does or wants to do. They are not physically or mentally  developed enough to make harsh decisions about their sexuality, parents need to talk to their children and give them proper guidance


Oppose

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"When it comes down to it, this policy prevents teens and kids from expressing themselves the way they want to. That is no one’s business except the person who is expressing themselves. Gender is a social construct. Attaching a gender to clothes, bathrooms, things, and activities is a choice. A toilet has no gender. Why police this? There are so many things that should be focused on like making sure schools have the personnel and support that they need. As a parent, I want my kid supported and I realize I cannot be everything for my child. That is why they need friends, teachers, neighbors, aunts/uncles, grandparents, etc. I would rather my child talk to someone (even if it isn’t me) rather than talk to no one and become more likely to commit suicide. It takes a community to make a community. Our communities have a vested interest in having productive members of society and mental health issues (caused by harassment or inability to be oneself) are a very big barrier for that. What about what the kids want?"}'>When it comes down to it, this policy prevents teens and kids from expressing themselves the way they want to. That is no one’s business except the person who is expressing themselves. Gender is a social construct. Attaching a gender to clothes, bathrooms, things, and activities is a choice. A toilet has no gender. Why police this? There are so many things that should be focused on like making sure schools have the personnel and support that they need. As a parent, I want my kid supported and I realize I cannot be everything for my child. That is why they need friends, teachers, neighbors, aunts/uncles, grandparents, etc. I would rather my child talk to someone (even if it isn’t me) rather than talk to no one and become more likely to commit suicide. It takes a community to make a community. Our communities have a vested interest in having productive members of society and mental health issues (caused by harassment or inability to be oneself) are a very big barrier for that. What about what the kids want?


Strongly oppose

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Transgender people rights are human rights and they have the right to be treated with respect and dignity.

I oppose any law that violates human rights


Strongly Oppose

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<p>Leave the existing policy in place alone. </p>


Strongly support.

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Finally, someone in state leadership exercising common sense and not catering to extreme ideologies.


100% support

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I support our governor and parental rights!


strongly support- people are tired of this damaging make believe in our schools

yes people are tired of this. and it will pass, and reality will remain


Strongly oppose

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Protect trans kids, oppose Youngkin's proposed 2022 anti-transgender student policies.  It is a travesty to undermine these students' mental health by not supporting them and not allowing teachers to call them by their preferred name.  How could parents even begin to help their children understand this policy?  Talk about equity- where is it in this proposal?  Do not erase the model policies passed in the previous administration.


Oppose- this policy harms teachers and students

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By forcing teachers to report any comments on a student’s gender to the student’s parents, this policy would prohibit children who are undergoing a process of self questioning and discovery from being able to meaningfully connect with or confide in their teachers, thus affecting their ability to feel safe at school. By prohibiting teachers from respecting the gender identities of trans children, this policy effectively enforces discrimination, despite its language stating that it does not. By not allowing teachers to respect the gender identities of their students, this policy violates the same First amendment rights that it seeks to protect. I am strongly opposed to this proposal.


Disagree

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As a trans person and educator, I strongly oppose this document. There is data to support that this approach would cause great harm to many youth, not just trans youth.


Oppose

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<p>I am opposed to the draft of policy regarding transgender students in Virginia schools. These policies will have a dangerous impact on the health and mental health of transgender students. These kids need the support of their communities. </p>


Stop using trans kids for political capital.

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This legislation is appalling, and I oppose it 100%. It’s a cheap and easy way to harm an innocent minority for the sake of political pandering and gaining political capital. It’s disgusting and horrific.


Strongly support the 2022 policy change

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I strongly support the new policy.  Gender dysphoria is a mental condition that is best treated with psychiatric counseling.  A 30 year Swedish study of "transgenders" that had surgery and gender affirming treatments showed that these people were 19 times more likely to commit suicide or have suicidal ideations.  There are many who express what is now being called "trans-regret".  Even the much celebrated "I am Jaz" transgender boy/girl is suffering from deep depression and regret.  Mutilating your body does not change your DNA or your sex or gender.  We should be encouraging counseling for these children, not affirmation.


In Support

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<p>I support the governor’s policies. </p>


OPPOSE! This is dangerous to everyone

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I strongly OPPOSE Younkin’s proposed changed to Virginia’s Department of Education Policy on transgender youth. This opposition is thought based, research based, medically and psychologically based, Christian based, and based in common- sense and basic human decency. To support this bill is to act against all of these.

I am astounded to see the policy makers attempt to legitimize this bill with reference to the 14th amendment. To use this amendment as support for “… the rights of parents to exercise their fundamental rights granted by the Fourteenth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution to direct the care, upbringing, and education of their children…” is legally questionable and a significant logical non-sequitur. The ONLY component of the 14th amendment to which this can possibly refer is the statement that “No State shall make or enforce any law which shall abridge the privileges or immunities of citizens of the United States;…” To claim that this part of the amendment speaks only about parents and not the rights of the children involved is to say that children are not citizens at the most generous and not people at the most literal. Ignoring for a moment the horrific actions that can befall children if we begin to think that they are neither human nor citizens, it remains is an abomination for the state’s department of education to think so poorly of the humans which it is in place to serve!

Additionally, our policy makers are supposed to be educated thoughtful individuals who know how to assess fact from fiction and lead though demonstration, NOT ignorance and fear. There is not a single argument against transgender affirmation for children that is backed up by or based in fact. The fear that a transgender female in the girl’s bathroom will endanger female students has been demonstrated baseless repeatedly and with enough longevity of research to disallow any dissenting opinion. The fear that this will allow predatory males to enter these spaces in disguise has likewise been disproven as baseless fear. However, violence against transgender children and their allies has been proven repeatedly. The increased rate of suicide of disaffirmed transgender children and their allies has been proven through research repeatedly. An individuals’ “discomfort” or “inconvenience” at having to learn someone’s pronouns does not remotely equate to the risk of DEATH that our transgender youth experience in the face of adult affirmed hate such as this bill. The idea that having to learn someone’s trans name is “uncomfortable” or “inconvenient” is beyond laughable. Was it so hard to learn that Richard preferred to be called “Dick”? Why should I call Edward “E-dog” because he is more comfortable with it? These are not the names given by their parents. The idea that because they remain “gender appropriate” they are acceptable is mental gymnastics at their finest.

Although I could go on and counter each assertion of this new bill step by step, as could anyone who has read the bill and the research on the subject matter; I know that my arguments will fall on deaf ears interested only in pandering to the fear and hate of the loud and ignorant masses who spew hate instead of the love that Jesus himself mandated we use as the starting point of all of our interactions with other humans. Allow me just to point out, using a favorite phrase of republican’s themselves, this bill presents a slippery slope that threatens to destroy public education in the state of Virginia as well as the safety of all of our children. The delusional belief that a school system can keep children safe while: “Schools shall respect parents’ values and beliefs: Parents have the right to instill in and nurture values and beliefs for their own children and make decisions concerning their children’s education and upbringing in accordance with their customs, faith, and family culture.” What is my family culture is to hate everyone who looks different than I? What if my custom is to disparage everyone else's level of intelligence? What if my faith states that a male can do anything he wants to a female? What if I want my children to learn and practice these atrocities? This paragraph allows me to do so. But, what if my custom, faith and family culture is to accept everyone with love and support and use their pronouns and chosen names and I want my children to learn this? By denying their teachers the right to support transgender students, you are denying me my right to “and make decisions concerning their children’s education and upbringing in accordance with their customs, faith, and family culture.” I decide that my children’s teachers affirm all identities, including transgender peers.


Opposition to the 2022 Model Policies

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TO: Virginia Department of Education

CC: Jillian Balow

My name is John Henry Vansant, and I am a JD/MPP candidate at the University of Virginia. As a student in Virginia and someone with family across the Commonwealth, I write this comment in opposition to the 2022 Model Policies because they are going to significantly harm trans students. While states like Colorado are taking steps forward to protect LGBTQ+ students and build inclusive learning environments for them, the 2022 Model Policies constitute a repressive step backwards and will harm Virginia students.

The 2022 Model Policies define being a trans student as “a public school student whose parent has requested in writing, due to their child’s persistent and sincere belief that his or her gender differs from his or her sex, that their child be identified while at school.” It takes the power away from trans, nonbinary, and gender-nonconforming students from realizing their identity in their own right and instead defines it in terms of parents’ views. It also refers to gender identity as a “belief” instead of a deeply held knowledge and realization of one’s identity. This promotes a false narrative based on a lack of scientifically-based research. It also erases the identity of nonbinary and intersex people by operating on a male/female binary. These policies also remove sexual orientation and gender identity as explicitly protected classes for bullying, harassment, and discrimination. At the same time, it eliminates specific school personnel professional development for the health and well-being of LGBTQ+ students.

Outside of this, the 2022 Model Policies dangerously require misgendering and deadnaming trans students when the student’s preferred name and pronouns are not accurately reflected on student records. Some studies have shown that use of a trans student’s preferred name not only assists with social transition, but also reduces mental health risks such as depression, and suicidal ideation and attempts. https://www.jahonline.org/article/S1054-139X(18)30085-5/fulltext.

Trans students are also placed in danger of being outed. The 2021 Model Policies allowed disclosure, with a legitimate educational interest, only to other school personnel. The 2022 Model Policies permit disclosure, with a legitimate educational interest or when required by law, to other school personnel and the student’s parents. Many times, students feel safer coming out to school staff instead of their own parents. I believe the choice should rest with the trans student on who they would like to come out to.

Outing can be dangerous. “28% of LGBTQ youth reported experiencing homelessness or housing instability.” https://www.thetrevorproject.org/research-briefs/homelessness-and-housing-instability-among-lgbtq-youth-feb-2022/. These rates are disproportionately greater for non-white LGBTQ+ youth. Id. Further, “[h]omelessness and housing instability were reported at higher rates among transgender and nonbinary youth, including 38% of transgender girls/women, 39% of transgender boys/men, and 35% of nonbinary youth, compared to 23% of cisgender LGBQ youth.” Id. 16% of LGBTQ+ youth report running away because of fears of abuse, 14% report they were kicked out or abandoned, and 40% of those report being kicked out or abandoned because of their LGBTQ+ identity. Id. Despite making up 5-10% of the United States’ population, LGBTQ+ individuals make up 20-40% of the homeless population. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6695950/. LGBTQ+ youth, especially trans youth, are also overrepsented in the foster care system compared to their heterosexual and cisgender peers. https://www.childrensrights.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/2019.02.12-LGBTQ-Youth-in-Unstable-Housing-and-Foster-Care.pdf.

Trans youth face higher rates of suicidal ideation and attempts compared with their cisgender peers. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/0886260520915554. This is not because of the fact that they are trans. Countless false narratives are circulating the media and the public comment section for the 2022 Model Policies that being trans or part of the LGBTQ+ community itself leads to worse mental health outcomes. Instead, many of the contributing factors to this phenomenon are attributable to the societal treatment of trans individuals such as “micro-aggressions, internalized self-stigma, and adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), and protective factors: school belonging, family support, and peer support . . . ” Id. In fact, major professional organizations such as the American Academy of Pediatrics are in consensus that being trans itself is not a mental illness, but conditions caused by the societal treatment of trans individuals–such as depression, anxiety, and gender dysphoria–are preventable. See, e.g., Brief of Am. Acad. of Pediatrics et al. at 8-9, Parents for Privacy v. Barr, 949 F.3d 1210 (9th Cir. 2020) (No. 18-35708), 2019 WL 1261905. VDOE can and should do more to address the societal discrimination of trans students instead of contributing to it.

The 2022 Model Policies also require sex segregation of facilities such as bathrooms and locker rooms based on “biological sex.” While the 2022 Model Policies permit school districts to modify the policies “to the extent required by federal law,” the baseline is already in conflict with federal law. First of all, these requirements conflict with federal law. See Grimm v. Gloucester Cty. Sch. Bd., 972 F.3d 586, 613-15, 616-19 (4th Cir. 2020) (the court reasoning that trans discrimination for bathroom access based on biological sex failed both the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment to the Federal Constitution as well as Title IX); see also https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/docs/t9nprm-factsheet.pdf. Second of all, lack of trans students’ access to facilities corresponding with their gender identity can result in urinary tract infections, alienation, humiliation, suicidal ideation, and hospitalization. See, e.g., Grimm v. Gloucester Cty. Sch. Bd., 972 F.3d 586, 600 (4th Cir. 2020).

Sadly, the damage from VDOE has already been done. Anti-trans legislation and policies exacerbate trans peoples’ feeling of hopelessness and contribute to lower levels of feeling like they belong. https://www.apa.org/pubs/journals/releases/sgd-sgd0000481.pdf. VDOE is actively disparately impacting trans students and adults simply by the introduction of these transphobic policies. On the other hand, studies have shown that stronger LGBTQ+ protections in the law are associated with lower levels of bullying. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S037687162100154X. More LGBTQ+-inclusive state policies and legislation are also tied to better results in trans students’ physical health. https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/full/10.1089/trgh.2018.0031.

Further, respecting trans students’ preferred names, as opposed to deadnaming, improves their mental health and lowers suicidal ideation and attempts. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1054139X18300855. Trans students are nearly twice as likely to be threatened or harmed compared to other students. https://www.veanea.org/support-transgender-youth/. Outing to trans students’ parents and other school personnel will only exacerbate this.

I appreciate that VDOE has provided resources on school connectedness as some studies show that school-connectedness is associated with better mental health outcomes for trans students. https://www.veanea.org/support-transgender-youth/. However, removing explicit protections for bullying, harassment, and discrimination for LGBTQ+ students, LGBTQ+ specific annual training for school personnel, and the over sixty resources from the 2021 Model Policies undermines this principle.

Scientific evidence shows that VDOE has already harmed trans peoples’ mental health, trans students in particular. Scientific evidence also shows that the 2022 Model Policies will only worsen that trend. Many trans students are going to not just suffer worse mental health outcomes but die because of the 2022 Model Policies. I ask VDOE and the Virginia state government to think critically about if that is the right price to pay for “parental rights.”

The 2022 Model Policies are wrong because they replace evidence-based resources that promote healthy childhood development with insufficient resources that do not respond to the challenges that LGBTQ+ students face. These proposals affect my LGBTQ+ friends and loved ones because they will contribute to the broader stigmatization of their sexual orientation and gender identities. Policies like deadnaming and disclosure will have negative impacts beyond the classroom, as they are steps in a broader effort to marginalize LGBTQ+ people and sideline practices that will help LGBTQ+ people feel welcome in public schools and other public institutions. An affront to LGBTQ+ students and their ability to learn in an inclusive environment is an affront to all LGBTQ+ people and everyone else who wishes to promote a just and equitable society. Other states like Colorado have taken positive steps to promote resources for LGBTQ+ students and address the unique challenges that they face. I was proud to help these efforts as a legislative aide prior to graduate school, and it distresses me to see Virginia proposing harmful policies at a time when comparable states are advancing dignity and wellness for all students.

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


Transphobia legislation

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I am totally opposed to legislation that does some huge damage to the transpeople. Why would we want to take away their rights. They have enough difficulties to deal with in their life.


TRANS RIGHTS ARE HUMAN RIGHTS

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TRANS RIGHTS ARE HUMAN RIGHTS