In opposition of these negligent policies

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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 a gay, nonbinary Virginian and proud Appalachian. I currently reside and work in Richmond with roots in southwestern VA (Chilhowie, VA). I strongly oppose the willfully negligent 2022 VDOE model policies. These proposed guidelines do not provide an equitable educational experience for all youth and will negatively impact educational and mental health outcomes across our state. \n\nSupporters of this policy cite “parental rights” and the commitment school personnel have to parents of the students they serve. I ask, is the commitment of our educators, administrators, the VDOE itself, not first to the youth of Virginia? Is the promise of an affirming school environment where all students can thrive and grow as their true selves not more foundational than a false covenant between parents and personnel that undermines youths’ autonomy? Supporters of the 2022 policy believe the evidence-based 2021 policies drive a wedge between parents and youth by encouraging educators to withhold information. If a youth chooses to share sensitive aspects of their identity with their peers and educators but not their guardians, we should respect that. Whether that choice is made as a reflection of how they understand their guardians support to be conditional or as a personal decision allowing them to grow and self-reflect before inviting their guardians into all aspects of themselves, we must acknowledge that youth know themselves and know their family dynamics far better than a VDOE staff person or administrator. \n\nI grew up in a religious environment surrounded by racist, transphobic, and homophobic small-town rhetoric. I buried the queer parts of myself as deeply as I could during my school years – never letting myself consider, much less act on, how I was feeling. I saw the two openly gay students in my class ridiculed and ostracized by my peers, educators, and administrators. With no GSA, no trusted counselor, and no community support, other closeted youth like myself flocked to the few open-minded and affirming educators we knew. Even though I could not invite them in to learn about my queer identity until years later, they affirmed the queerer parts of myself that I also hoped to conceal during high school (my genderqueerness, love of art, rejection of conservative ideals and an inequitable system). When I finally shared with my mother and her parents that I was gay in college, I lost that entire support system. However, I was lucky to have built a new support system and chosen family of educators, college peers, and queer adults beforehand. These proposed policies strip youth of such agency and encourage them to bury their true selves deeper – taking away the haven that school, often an English classroom or art classroom, can be for queer youth. \n\n60% of queer youth live in a home that is not affirming (The Trevor Project, 2022). When we laud parental rights, we endanger already marginalized youth by centering parents' so-called “right to know” over youths’ right to safety, affirmation, and growth. 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. 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. Specifically, having at least one accepting adult can reduce the risk of a suicide attempt among LGBTQ young people by 40 percent. Conservative policies attempting to restrict conversations about gender identity, sexuality, and intersectionality will not prevent students from being queer – that identity is inherent to their being. Rather, these policies only exacerbate negative mental health outcomes including suicide, depression, and anxiety. The VDOE, a district’s school board, or a homophobic guardian cannot erase a youth’s queerness, but they can drive them to suicide, addiction, and isolation through bigoted policy. If the humanistic argument respecting each youth’s personhood is not enough, consider how these 2022 model policies will reflect in absenteeism, student success measures, and school accreditation. Nearly one-third (32.2%) of LGBTQ+ students missed at least one day of school in the last month due to feeling unsafe (GLSEN, 2022). An estimated 1.8% of Virginia youth ages 13 to 17 identify as transgender, which corresponds to roughly 18,000 students under the VDOE’s jurisdiction. The disengagement of 18,000 students should be a motivating concern. The risk these policies place on the lives of 18,000 students, and the fear these policies strike into the hearts of 18,000 Virginian families should be a motivating concern. I implore you to rescind these model policies in favor of the 2021 evidence-based model policies. Created in consultation with community members and health professionals, they promoted a safer, healthier, and more affirming school experience where youth could thrive, regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation."}">I am a gay, nonbinary Virginian and proud Appalachian. I currently reside and work in Richmond with roots in southwestern VA (Chilhowie, VA). I strongly oppose the willfully negligent 2022 VDOE model policies. These proposed guidelines do not provide an equitable educational experience for all youth and will negatively impact educational and mental health outcomes across our state.

Supporters of this policy cite “parental rights” and the commitment school personnel have to parents of the students they serve. I ask, is the commitment of our educators, administrators, the VDOE itself, not first to the youth of Virginia? Is the promise of an affirming school environment where all students can thrive and grow as their true selves not more foundational than a false covenant between parents and personnel that undermines youths’ autonomy? Supporters of the 2022 policy believe the evidence-based 2021 policies drive a wedge between parents and youth by encouraging educators to withhold information. If a youth chooses to share sensitive aspects of their identity with their peers and educators but not their guardians, we should respect that. Whether that choice is made as a reflection of how they understand their guardians support to be conditional or as a personal decision allowing them to grow and self-reflect before inviting their guardians into all aspects of themselves, we must acknowledge that youth know themselves and know their family dynamics far better than a VDOE staff person or administrator.

I grew up in a religious environment surrounded by racist, transphobic, and homophobic small-town rhetoric. I buried the queer parts of myself as deeply as I could during my school years – never letting myself consider, much less act on, how I was feeling. I saw the two openly gay students in my class ridiculed and ostracized by my peers, educators, and administrators. With no GSA, no trusted counselor, and no community support, other closeted youth like myself flocked to the few open-minded and affirming educators we knew. Even though I could not invite them in to learn about my queer identity until years later, they affirmed the queerer parts of myself that I also hoped to conceal during high school (my genderqueerness, love of art, rejection of conservative ideals and an inequitable system). When I finally shared with my mother and her parents that I was gay in college, I lost that entire support system. However, I was lucky to have built a new support system and chosen family of educators, college peers, and queer adults beforehand. These proposed policies strip youth of such agency and encourage them to bury their true selves deeper – taking away the haven that school, often an English classroom or art classroom, can be for queer youth.

60% of queer youth live in a home that is not affirming (The Trevor Project, 2022). When we laud parental rights, we endanger already marginalized youth by centering parents' so-called “right to know” over youths’ right to safety, affirmation, and growth. 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. 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. Specifically, having at least one accepting adult can reduce the risk of a suicide attempt among LGBTQ young people by 40 percent. Conservative policies attempting to restrict conversations about gender identity, sexuality, and intersectionality will not prevent students from being queer – that identity is inherent to their being. Rather, these policies only exacerbate negative mental health outcomes including suicide, depression, and anxiety. The VDOE, a district’s school board, or a homophobic guardian cannot erase a youth’s queerness, but they can drive them to suicide, addiction, and isolation through bigoted policy. If the humanistic argument respecting each youth’s personhood is not enough, consider how these 2022 model policies will reflect in absenteeism, student success measures, and school accreditation. Nearly one-third (32.2%) of LGBTQ+ students missed at least one day of school in the last month due to feeling unsafe (GLSEN, 2022). An estimated 1.8% of Virginia youth ages 13 to 17 identify as transgender, which corresponds to roughly 18,000 students under the VDOE’s jurisdiction. The disengagement of 18,000 students should be a motivating concern. The risk these policies place on the lives of 18,000 students, and the fear these policies strike into the hearts of 18,000 Virginian families should be a motivating concern. I implore you to rescind these model policies in favor of the 2021 evidence-based model policies. Created in consultation with community members and health professionals, they promoted a safer, healthier, and more affirming school experience where youth could thrive, regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation.


Support trans kids

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<p>This "guidance" is misguided. Trans and non binary kids deserve affirming and safe spaces. The science all points to the fact that trans kids who are able to be who they are and have their pronouns and new names honored have better mental health than those who do not. This guidance is dangerous to kids. I oppose this policy guidance </p>


Fully Support the Governor's Plan

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<p>I fully support Youngkin's policy.  I fully support parents' rights - schools (the state) should never keep information from parents.  I fully support protecting our kids - restrooms/locker rooms should be separated by gender (not gender identity). </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":"Please do not impose these constraints on education. If we want our youth to grow up to be discerning citizens with a thirst for knowledge and an appreciation of all the world has to offer, we should not limit the resources available for them, whether we personally agree with them or not. Unless we don’t trust our children to be other than automatons who repeat everything they read without any discernment — like zombies from an invasion of the body snatchers film — we should allow them access to as much information as we can, and teach them to read, question, explore and, dare I say THINK FOR THEMSELVES."}'>Please do not impose these constraints on education. If we want our youth to grow up to be discerning citizens with a thirst for knowledge and an appreciation of all the world has to offer, we should not limit the resources available for them, whether we personally agree with them or not. Unless we don’t trust our children to be other than automatons who repeat everything they read without any discernment — like zombies from an invasion of the body snatchers film — we should allow them access to as much information as we can, and teach them to read, question, explore and, dare I say THINK FOR THEMSELVES.


2022 Model Policy is contradictory to law and impermissibly vague

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The 2022 model policy are not informed by “evidence based best practices” as required by the underlying HB 145 adopted into law. All evidence based best practices practices from WPATH, American Psychological Association, American Academy of Pediatricians and the American Medical Association are in conflict with the policies proposed by the Youngkin. Additionally, the 2020 policy is in conflict with the 2020 Virginia Values Act as it relates to equal rights for LGBTQ students in public schools. Provisions related to locker rooms, bathrooms are already in conflict with the Circuit Court of Appeals ruling in the Grimm case, among others such as Bostock. The 2022 policy is impermissibly vague and intentionally designed to creat ambiguity when it is already settled case law in VA that transgender children must be treated in accordance with their gender identity rather than sex assigned at birth or they are being discriminated against in violation of their civil rights. Additionally, the language of the 2022 policy ignored evidence based practices and continues internally inconsistent provisions as it ignores evidence based definitions in favor of politically motivated animus which is targeted against the most vulnerable of all people, trans children. This effort as well as Gov. Youngkin make illusory arguments about parental rights that clearly only envision rights for certain parents who hypocritically agree with the medical community if their child has a broken leg or arm but ignores the same medical community’s evidence based best practices when the topic is gender identity. It also denies any parental rights to the parents of trans children who are following evidence based best practices shared by all reputable American medical associations regarding life saving care for transgender youth. As a parent of a trans kid, I listen to my kid and their doctors when they tell me that they have a broken leg or that they have a gender identity that differs from the sex assigned at birth. And, as a parent, I will ensure their safety as advised by evidence best practices by putting a cast on their leg or ensuring that lifesaving names and pronouns are used at school. Strongly oppose this policy!!!


I OPPOSE the guidance


Trans rights are human rights, and regressive Republican policies wil never change that.

The “model policies” put forth by the Youngkin administration are dehumanizing and highly reductive - and reek of transphobia thinly veiled by a supposed concern for parental rights. Trans youth already experience substantial bullying and mental health issues, and the Youngkin administration model policies aim to prevent the accommodation of these students. The model policy does not aim to protect free speech or religious liberty - it aims to make an ideology assertion that trans identities are invalid. Free speech, and freedom from compelled speech are indeed important, but it does not need to come at the expense of our LGBT youth. In fact, prohibiting teachers from being able to refer to students by their preferred names and pronouns restricts the speech of both teachers and students alike. Students have a right to express themselves in the manner that they see fit. I see no reason for this model policy to exist beyond the continued repression and dehumanization of trans Virginians.


Trans is Trendy, school is for LEARNING

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Strongly oppose. My niece considers herself "trans"... she is 12 years old... no CHILD should be worried about these issues in school. School is for learning. How many weird phases do children go through before the age of 17??? A LOT.  Being transgender is trendy right now, which is why there is a rise in this issue. Our family isn't changing our morals/values for a 12 year old child who wants to change her name/pronouns because of a trendy phase that will hopefully pass. I don't expect teachers to have to do this either if they oppose it! Before this became a trend, i bet you most 12 year olds could barely tell you want pronouns are. Mind you i am NOT anti-trans people i am against CHILDREN making BIG decisions in their youth.


Expand Trans Student's rights

I fully support trans student's rights. I am a clinical psychologist and I am aware of trauma caused by policies that seriously limit trans students’ rights in schools and the roll back previously-passed protections.We know that gender is on a spectrum and it is biological. We need to be open to all students and should not discriminate against any. Please be humane, ethical and moral and expand trans students' rights, not curtail them. Dr. Gloor

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"I fully support trans student's rights. I am a clinical psychologist and I am aware of trauma caused by policies that seriously limit trans students’ rights in  schools and the roll back previously-passed protections.\nWe know that gender is on a spectrum and it is biological. We need to be open to all students and should not discriminate against any. \nPlease be humane, ethical and moral and expand trans students' rights, not curtail them. \n\nDr. Gloor"}">I fully support trans student's rights. I am a clinical psychologist and I am aware of trauma caused by policies that seriously limit trans students’ rights in schools and the roll back previously-passed protections.
We know that gender is on a spectrum and it is biological. We need to be open to all students and should not discriminate against any.
Please be humane, ethical and moral and expand trans students' rights, not curtail them.

Dr. Gloor


Strongly Oppose

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This potential policy is cruel. Politicians and other narrow-minded people do not get to regulate the bodies and identities of others.


Strongly Object!

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Strongly opposed to rolling back the clock and diminishing trans rights.


Oppose

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I have a nephew who is trans and several friends with trans children. I think all these individuals should be supported--not shunned or excluded--in public schools.


Oppose

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"Schools are safe havens for transgender and non-binary students and taking this away from them will do more harm than good. LGBT youth are four times as likely to attempt suicide. Over half of the transgender and non-binary youth in the United States have seriously considered attempting suicide in the past year. Taking away their safe haven and creating a hostile learning environment will sky rocket this number. Transgender and non-binary youth are real and valid and their lives matter."}'>Schools are safe havens for transgender and non-binary students and taking this away from them will do more harm than good. LGBT youth are four times as likely to attempt suicide. Over half of the transgender and non-binary youth in the United States have seriously considered attempting suicide in the past year. Taking away their safe haven and creating a hostile learning environment will sky rocket this number. Transgender and non-binary youth are real and valid and their lives matter.


Oppose

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It's okay to be who you are, and we should stand up for those who are brave enough to put it out there. I oppose the transphobic draft policy.


Liberation for Trans Kids!

Hyacinth Bellerose, Friendly City Safe Space

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As a trans nonbinary adult and a queer community organizer I know that these policies will be harmful to trans kids. As a kid, I was not able to safely express my identity for fear that people in my community and family would retaliate. Today I meet with so many kids who feel the same way. Kids who have been kicked out of their homes because of their parents beliefs about trans identity. Kids who have attempted suicide because they see no other way out. This policy would lead to countless lives lost, homeless trans youth, and long-term trauma and harm. I strongly oppose this policy.


Really protect kids

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"It is your job to make sure people are safe and well cared for, including trans kids. Parents will do anything to protect our kids and do what’s best for them. We will fight like hell along with allies and will not be stopped, especially by the likes of you or any other bully. Bullies are weak and scared and power-hungry. They only respond to strength and we are strong. God is on our side and we are on the right side of history. People like you will never really win because you are close minded, heartless, and a menace of society."}'>It is your job to make sure people are safe and well cared for, including trans kids. Parents will do anything to protect our kids and do what’s best for them. We will fight like hell along with allies and will not be stopped, especially by the likes of you or any other bully. Bullies are weak and scared and power-hungry. They only respond to strength and we are strong. God is on our side and we are on the right side of history. People like you will never really win because you are close minded, heartless, and a menace of society.


Oppose


Strongly Oppose.

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This will help kill so many children, if that's what you want.


I OPPOSE the guidance.

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I identify as a cisgender female, however, many of my friends throughout K-12 identified as non-binary or transgender. The flexibility to change their pronouns and the protection from discrimination and harassment empowered them to express themselves freely.

This student policy promotes discrimination and harassment of non-binary and transgender individuals. I OPPOSE this policy.


Strongly opposed

Diana Ortiz (parent, mental health professional, human)

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As a parent and as a human being, I strongly opposed to the VDOE new proposed model policies for the treatment of transgender and nonbinary students in our public schools. I  stand in opposition to them. All children have the right to learn in a safe and supportive environment that respects their humanity and upholds their dignity. The 2022 Model Policies send a dangerous message that some students do not belong, and in fact should not even exist.

Furthermore, as a mental health professional and leader in the sexual and domestic violence field, I see how sexual and domestic violence is linked to other forms of harm and that supporting equality and respect for ALL people, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression, is integral to creating a Virginia free from sexual and domestic violence.

The 2022 Model Policies will significantly and irreparably harm Virginia’s students and families and as antiviolence advocates; I firmly oppose their adoption.


Support parent's rights

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<p>Please protect parent rights. We deserve to know what is going on with our kids and what they are being taught. Please keep fighting for the family and parents. </p>


Oppose

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This is a serious overreach of governmental authority. It’s not the governments place to tell people what they can and can’t be. What they do does not harm you. I don’t understand why you’re so afraid of people being people. This set of policies will only serve to cause even more harm and death in the transgender community!


Oppose

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LGBTQ+ rights are human rights! Our children and grandchildren must be fully and unconditionally loved and respected for who they are. Don’t let this bill put them in danger by disrespecting their human rights!


For Pro-Parent Policies

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I support the pro-parent policies proposed by the Virginia Department of Education.  In particular:

Students should use the bathroom corresponding to their gender at birth.  Girls should  not be forced to share a bathroom with boys.  Single-user bathrooms should be available to all students

Students participating in athletic competition should compete against others of the same birth gender.  Girls should not be forced to share locker rooms with boys.  Also, it is unfair for girls to be forced to compete against boys who have a physical advantage in strength, speed, etc.

Thank you


We belong.

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This law seeks to discriminate against transgender and non-binary students. These students may be OUTED to their parents. This is extremely dangerous and absolutely unacceptable. We belong, and we deserve the right to be comfortable at school.


LGBTQ students

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I am opposed to the regulation that schools not treat LGBTQ students with respect.  Insisting that schools tell parents of the child's prefernces makes it harder for youth to be able to talk to a trusted adult about their questions. Some students do not have reasonable support at home and need someone to talk to.  If they feel that what they tell a counselor will be reported to home they are less liely to discuss their stressors.

Please DO NOT make life harder for our LGBTQ students. They need to be able to talk to a trusted adult and they most often find such a person in school.  Please don't take this safety net away from them.


Please do not adopt this illegal policy

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This proposed policy is likely illegal, as it is in conflict with Virginia and federal anti-discrimination law. Please do not adopt illegal policies that violate state and federal law and constitutions. Everyone has a right to be addressed and be identified according to their own wishes, including students. Furthermore, the proposed policy would defend someone's right to bully trans students while not defending trans students right to have people use their preferred name, pronoun, etc. Please do not adopt this policy.


A Policy That Negatively Affects Vulnerable Children

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The proposed policy changes would negatively affect trans children and their families. It is clear that the persons drafting these policies have never spoken with a trans person or the family of a trans child. For parents who are supportive of their children, it puts undue burden on them to obtain court orders before a school can refer to the child by their preferred name or pronoun. The change in policy affects a small and vulnerable population, and ties the hands of teachers, staff, and administrators who may be able to help the student during a difficult time. Not all children have families that are supportive, and for some the only supportive adult in their lives is someone at school.  Children experiencing gender dysphoria already have higher rates of depression and suicide than their peers, and all this policy does is further ostracize them.


Strongly oppose remember these are children/ educator counselor administrator

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<p>This is not the role of the state it is the role of school systems and individual schools. We include families AND keep children safe. These are children you are frightening on a daily basis for human right to be seen, called by who you are and safe in using the school resources. These are not yet formed adults and need people they can confide in and to say that is always the family is denying your own truth. Children and the center with policies that do not harm. </p>


Support ALL students, not just the ones YOU feel comfortable supporting

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All students need to feel comfortable going to school and being in their own skin. Being a teen is hard enough without adults around them telling them they can not be who they are. Please allow for ALL students to have the support of their school and community by not allowing for these outdated policies to be instated!


Oppose

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I OPPOSE this guidance. This is going to get children killed. There is mountains of scientific evidence that acceptance and inclusion lowers trans youth's risks of suicide. These model policies are a disgrace that will directly harm an already marginalized group of young people.


Trans Rights children

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Trans rights are human rights.  They must be honored.


youngkin's policy

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i support the parents rights to know all thats going on in the schools


Stingly Support

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Parents deserve to know what their child is doing, saying or how their acting in a public school.  Parents also deserve to know that boys and girls will be separated in lavatories and scholastic sports. No child or parent should ever have to worry about a trans kid in an opposite gender room for any reason.  Many children are afraid that something like the incident in Loundon County will occur.  Schools are meant for learning not catering to the latest culture trend which, IMHO needs to be treated by a professional.


Oppose

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Hate and intolerance have NO place in our schools let alone on our community. Let's leave a legacy of love replaced by hate.


I strongly oppose.

I'm a mom of two kids in the WJCC schools. Our teachers have been spectacular and have been supportive of the LGBTQ youth in their classrooms. My kids are friends with non-binary children, it has not harmed them in any way, and the science backs me up on this. This policy is awful, and I want the Department of Education to reject it. The teachers aren't teaching kids "how to be trans" they're simply accepting who these kids say they are, so the kids can focus on learning. Which is what is most important.When you erase voices, you create a dangerous environment. You force people to make drastic possibly life-harming choices. Our children and our teachers are already strained to the edge, please don't make things worse.

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"I'm a mom of two kids in the WJCC schools.  Our teachers have been spectacular and have been supportive of the LGBTQ youth in their classrooms.  My kids are friends with non-binary children,  it has not harmed them in any way, and the science backs me up on this.  \n\nThis policy is awful, and I want the Department of Education to reject it.  \n\nThe teachers aren't teaching kids \"how to be trans\" they're simply accepting who these kids say they are, so the kids can focus on learning.  Which is what is most important.\n\nWhen you erase voices, you create a dangerous environment. You force people to make drastic possibly life-harming choices.  Our children and our teachers are already strained to the edge, please don't make things worse.  \n\n"}">I'm a mom of two kids in the WJCC schools. Our teachers have been spectacular and have been supportive of the LGBTQ youth in their classrooms. My kids are friends with non-binary children, it has not harmed them in any way, and the science backs me up on this.

This policy is awful, and I want the Department of Education to reject it.

The teachers aren't teaching kids "how to be trans" they're simply accepting who these kids say they are, so the kids can focus on learning. Which is what is most important.

When you erase voices, you create a dangerous environment. You force people to make drastic possibly life-harming choices. Our children and our teachers are already strained to the edge, please don't make things worse.


Support Parental Rights

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<p>I am in full support of the new Model Policy.  </p>


Oppose

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I OPPOSE the guidance. Children are at risk if they do not receive appropriate support at school. Please make schools safe for all students.


Trans rights are human rights

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Trans rights are human rights, you monsters.


This is trash

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"For those of you that wail ‘think of the children’ and then pull crap like this, grow up and actually consider the lives you are trying to destroy.  Those lives are actual children.  Young lives that deserve to feel safe and accepted for who they actually are.  All children deserve that! Not just the ones that fit some norm held by a certain group of people.  \n\nAmerica has tried to break down, suppress, and or eradicate so many people that were somehow considered different.  Can we please just finally realize we are all just human and treat each other with even the most basic level of decency.  \n"}'>For those of you that wail ‘think of the children’ and then pull crap like this, grow up and actually consider the lives you are trying to destroy. Those lives are actual children. Young lives that deserve to feel safe and accepted for who they actually are. All children deserve that! Not just the ones that fit some norm held by a certain group of people.

America has tried to break down, suppress, and or eradicate so many people that were somehow considered different. Can we please just finally realize we are all just human and treat each other with even the most basic level of decency.


Strongly support

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I strongly support Governor Youngkin. However, I do feel that trans bathrooms and trans sports teams need to be made available to trans students. That way there is no issue of exclusion. Once these accommodations have been made, then maybe that population will be satisfied.


Support Parents' Rights to Raise their Children

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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.


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 ashamed of the government officials that raise this question.  Of course, we should support ALL students.  It doesn't matter about their sex, gender, race, religion, or anything else.  It is foolishness, and a waste of time and energy to have to constantly fight proposed policies which will undermine the well being of one group of students.  How can I be proud to be a Virginian when such mean-spiritedness is running throughout the Commonwealth?  It is a sad day, and I have seen a lot of sad days generated by politicians, being 72 years old."}">I am ashamed of the government officials that raise this question. Of course, we should support ALL students. It doesn't matter about their sex, gender, race, religion, or anything else. It is foolishness, and a waste of time and energy to have to constantly fight proposed policies which will undermine the well being of one group of students. How can I be proud to be a Virginian when such mean-spiritedness is running throughout the Commonwealth? It is a sad day, and I have seen a lot of sad days generated by politicians, being 72 years old.


Parents have always had rights - OPPOSE Proposal/Support Trans Kids

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The buzz words of “parent rights” infuriate me. Parents have always had rights. The right to attend parent-teacher conferences. The right to work with their children on their homework. The right to volunteer in the classroom, go on field trips, and to band concerts. The right to attend and speak at school board meetings. The right to vote for local officials. Those rights have always been there. But, have the parents always been there? The answer is no. For the past decades, parents have abdicated those rights and wanted others to raise their children. They’re too busy to attend conferences and back to school nights. They’re too busy to support school functions. They didn’t think local elections mattered.

And now these same parents screaming about their rights are demanding their rights are more important than the rights of others. Just because they’re yelling and threatening violence doesn’t make them just. For they are not. Their screaming removes humanity from the individuals this affects. The proposed changes are harmful. The proposed changes will hurt countless Virginia youth and families.

Shame on the governor and appointees for playing political ping-pong with our young – and often most vulnerable – citizens. Remove the politics. Focus on humanity. For these are our sons and daughters, our grandchildren, our neighbors.


Strongly Oppose

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<p>I am disappointed that our state government utilized their time, energy, and taxpayer dollars to intentionally create a discriminatory policy that is in direct contradiction to the American ideal of “Liberty and Justice for all.” As civil servants of our country, it is part of your job to serve the people for whom you work. How does creating an environment that will incite violence and discriminate and alienate an entire demographic serve the people? Trans people are your constituents; we are citizens of this country, this state, these counties. We are on the farms of southern Virginia and in the small towns of the Appalachian; we’re serving tourists on the beaches; we’re in the city centers and at your public universities; working and living here in this state, many of us BORN and bred Virginians. You exist and are elected to serve us, ALL of us, not just those whose lives you value more than others. And if you believe that trans lives are of lesser value, then you have failed in your public duty to this state and to our country. </p>


oppose new policies

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If children are not safe to express themselves in school, children are not free to learn, grow, and develop into leaders and citizens. The state and cities hire their staff to use their judgement to serve their students, yet Youngkin wants to micromanage teacher, counselor, and administrators decisions based on his political and perhaps spiritual (?) agendas (Thomas Jefferson would be rolling over in his grave if so). So much for the party of small government. So much for personal liberty and free expression. This policy is harmful and it is opposed by Virginians from all walks of life. Please listen to us.


This Guidance is Everything Against Equality and Inclusion

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From an family with trans youth, Governor Youngkin's guidance directly attacks children who are trying to navigate their world. A safe space in the education system is critical. Watching our family members go to school, to an environment where they are not seen or protected, leaves a scars they will face for the rest of their lives.


Transgender policy

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The changes under consideration put our school employees in a difficult spot. Students should have a safe place to speak in confidence and confidentiality with their teacher. Gov Youngkin began his policies with the students and parents ratting out their teachers, and this proposal expands his ratting out posse to the teachers. Please don't fall for this!


Oppose

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<p>I oppose these proposed model policies for the harm they inflict on marginalized children. </p>


Oppose

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This is completely uncalled for and it’s crazy to put people in the position….. He is completely out of touch with Virginians


2022 Model Policies On The Privacy, Dignity And Respect For All Students And Parents

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<p>Please change the policy proposed by Gov. Youngkin to allow students to present themselves based on their identity not on their birth certificate. Parents have no business coming into the school to dictate to my kid how to behave. That should be the job of the teacher. Parents rights stop at the school door because one parent should not have a say over another kid's behavior which is what this proposed policy allows. The social contract of 'in loco partentis' means we need to trust teachers to make the decisions while our kids are at school. </p>


Protect our LGBTQ youth

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<p>Protect our LGBTQ students. They have human and civil rights. Our government needs to respect the individuals right to choose their best life through personal choices. </p>


OPPOSE the policy

I am a queer student in Virginia with close relationships to many other queer students and I OPPOSE this policy.Transgender people are six times more likely to attempt suicide, 98% of transgender students that faced four instances of discrimination considered suicide. This policy is discriminatory, and every time a transgender student is met with discrimination, they are more and more likely to become part of that 98%. If the school system preaches to care about the mental students, how does this policy align? By devaluing the lives of transgender students? By hurting them? By leading them to suicide? Is this what you stand for?Almost every queer person I know knows someone whose parents don't accept them. The people I know have parents that will disown their children, beat them, leave them homeless. Parents are not always safe for children. And that's who these policies are directed to. Children. - Queer Student

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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 a queer student in Virginia with close relationships to many other queer students and I OPPOSE this policy.\nTransgender people are six times more likely to attempt suicide, 98% of transgender students that faced four instances of discrimination considered suicide. This policy is discriminatory, and every time a transgender student is met with discrimination, they are more and more likely to become part of that 98%. If the school system preaches to care about the mental students, how does this policy align? By devaluing the lives of transgender students? By hurting them? By leading them to suicide? Is this what you stand for?\nAlmost every queer person I know knows someone whose parents don't accept them. The people I know have parents that will disown their children, beat them, leave them homeless. Parents are not always safe for children. And that's who these policies are directed to. Children. \n- Queer Student"}">I am a queer student in Virginia with close relationships to many other queer students and I OPPOSE this policy.
Transgender people are six times more likely to attempt suicide, 98% of transgender students that faced four instances of discrimination considered suicide. This policy is discriminatory, and every time a transgender student is met with discrimination, they are more and more likely to become part of that 98%. If the school system preaches to care about the mental students, how does this policy align? By devaluing the lives of transgender students? By hurting them? By leading them to suicide? Is this what you stand for?
Almost every queer person I know knows someone whose parents don't accept them. The people I know have parents that will disown their children, beat them, leave them homeless. Parents are not always safe for children. And that's who these policies are directed to. Children.
- Queer Student


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'm a freshman in high school and I oppose this policy. As a queer student, losing my rights and privacy would make me feel very unsafe. School is supposed to be a safe environment, but these policies would change that for many students, including myself. Governor Youngkin and the VDOE are trying to enforce their political values by taking the rights of other humans, other students away. It's not right and this policy should not be adopted by school districts. It's harmful to the mental health of queer students, who already have a higher probability of suicide, and damaging at home and in relationships with friends and family. Hurting other students isn't the way to use your power as a person in a place of leadership, and Youngkin and the VDOE need to see that."}">I'm a freshman in high school and I oppose this policy. As a queer student, losing my rights and privacy would make me feel very unsafe. School is supposed to be a safe environment, but these policies would change that for many students, including myself. Governor Youngkin and the VDOE are trying to enforce their political values by taking the rights of other humans, other students away. It's not right and this policy should not be adopted by school districts. It's harmful to the mental health of queer students, who already have a higher probability of suicide, and damaging at home and in relationships with friends and family. Hurting other students isn't the way to use your power as a person in a place of leadership, and Youngkin and the VDOE need to see that.


Oppose this bill

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As a queer student I strongly oppose this bill. School is a safe space for so many trans students and taking that away from them is wrong. Trans students go through so many difficulties already, do not take away their basic human rights and respect.


Strongly Oppose

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<p>Students should be addressed by their gender at birth and absolutely NO other option should be made available. Just because someone decides today they believe they are a car doesn't mean if they sit in a garage they will become one. </p>


Strongly SUPPORT

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As a grandfather, I strongly support Governor Youngkin's policy. School's need to respect parent's rights.


Whole hartedly agree with Governor Youngkin

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I fully support Governor Youngkin's 2022 model policies. I firmly believe parents should be very involved in the education of their children. While I agree that all children should be treated with dignity and respect, I do not believe that should entitle them to anything their heart desires. For instance, if a child identifies as a black hawk helicopter, I do not believe that it would be wrong for a school to deny said student their own personal landing pad in place of a desk. Treating all children with dignity and respect should also not be equated to withholding critical information from parents about their own child.

As the father of a girl who will be attending school in a couple of years, I firmly stand behind the Governors decision to ban biological males from playing sports in direct competition with biological females. Biological women are being disenfranchised as a direct result of biological males choosing to play as "women." I would define the term, but I'm not a biologist.

Another policy that I am thrilled about is the bathroom policy. My daughter should have a right to privacy and safety. Full stop. My daughter's rights should not be sacrificed on the alter of "diversity, equity, and inclusion." The stakes are far too high, lest we forget what occurred at Stone Bridge High School in Loudoun County and the coverup that followed. To reiterate, our daughters' protection and safety should take precedent over a person's perception of self.

In conclusion, I firmly stand behind Governor Youngkin's changes to the Virginia Department of Education's 2022 model policies because he firmly stands behind parents and their rights to be involved in their children's education and to protect their children.


Oppose

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I oppose the governor's proposed anti-trans policies.


This matters to every citizen!

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I fully support the Governor's plan to restore reasonable, respectful policies regarding children suffering from gender dysphoria and their families. The family is the fundamental building block of society; if you strip away the rights of parents, you are building our society on a foundation of sand - and the ground will fall out from us all sooner than you think.

I support Gov. Youngkin's plan.


Support Trans Youth

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Schools should be safe places for all children, including children whose existence, for some reason, makes some people uncomfortable. Hate, discrimination, judgment and shame have no place in a public school. Please reconsider these mean-spirited regulations and return equality and respect to trans children. I know and love trans children and adults, and fully support their humanity and welcoming inclusion AS THEY ARE, in all public institutions.
Thank you -Allison Hyra


Oppose

Taking away trans rights is limiting tostudents and it takes away so many protections. It’s unfair and exclusive, and trans students deserve the same privacy and rights as cis/het students.

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Taking away trans rights is limiting to
students and it takes away so many protections. It’s unfair and exclusive, and trans students deserve the same privacy and rights as cis/het students.


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 proposed policies are deeply upsetting and infuriating. The studies and research are all against these policies - we cannot base our public educational system on antiquated, personal beliefs. If I had not had teachers in my high school that respected my identity, validated my queerness, and empowered me to be my most authentic self I may not be here today. I strongly oppose the proposed policies because I know they would hurt trans/ nonbinary students. It would create a continued culture hatred towards the LGBTQ+ community and not serve anyone."}'>The proposed policies are deeply upsetting and infuriating. The studies and research are all against these policies - we cannot base our public educational system on antiquated, personal beliefs. If I had not had teachers in my high school that respected my identity, validated my queerness, and empowered me to be my most authentic self I may not be here today. I strongly oppose the proposed policies because I know they would hurt trans/ nonbinary students. It would create a continued culture hatred towards the LGBTQ+ community and not serve anyone.


Support trans youth

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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 writing as the parent of a non-binary child to OPPOSE Youngkin's draft model policy and want the VDOE to reject it. Supporting one child's humanity does not harm any other child. In fact, it models empathy and tolerance, which is sorely lacking in today's world. Laws should not force school personnel to \"out\" young children who wish their identities to remain private. They should not make it illegal to show support for a youth's expression of self. This policy is misguided and cruel and reflects poorly on Virginia and all of America."}">I am writing as the parent of a non-binary child to OPPOSE Youngkin's draft model policy and want the VDOE to reject it. Supporting one child's humanity does not harm any other child. In fact, it models empathy and tolerance, which is sorely lacking in today's world. Laws should not force school personnel to "out" young children who wish their identities to remain private. They should not make it illegal to show support for a youth's expression of self. This policy is misguided and cruel and reflects poorly on Virginia and all of America.


Oppose

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i support trans kids and other minorities. no one should ever be discriminated, bullied or exiled.


I OPPOSE the guidance.

I am a graduate student with Masters degrees in Public Health and Applied Gender Studies. My research centers the lived experiences of transgender populations and it is a fact that gender-affirming policies for trans youth are LIFE-SAVING! Research demonstrates that affirming policies—which provide explicit, enumerated protections (i.e., a specific list of protections)—are associated with reduced rates of bullying and suicide, among other outcomes. "While statutes and regulations that protect and affirm LGBTQ+ students in schools remain more common than those that exclude them, the recent increase in exclusionary state policies contradicts a research base showing that student outcomes are best served in supportive environments."Virginia was my home as a child and I loved going to school there. It would break my heart to see Virginia school systems become a place that allows bigotry and hatred to override it's dedication to the protection and support of ALL students. https://www.childtrends.org/publications/most-state-policies-that-address-lgbtq-students-in-schools-are-affirming-despite-recent-trends-toward-exclusion

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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 a graduate student with Masters degrees in Public Health and Applied Gender Studies. My research centers the lived experiences of transgender populations and it is a fact that gender-affirming policies for trans youth are LIFE-SAVING! Research demonstrates that affirming policies—which provide explicit, enumerated protections (i.e., a specific list of protections)—are associated with reduced rates of bullying and suicide, among other outcomes. \"While statutes and regulations that protect and affirm LGBTQ+ students in schools remain more common than those that exclude them, the recent increase in exclusionary state policies contradicts a research base showing that student outcomes are best served in supportive environments.\"\n\nVirginia was my home as a child and I loved going to school there. It would break my heart to see Virginia school systems become a place that allows bigotry and hatred to override it's dedication to the protection and support of ALL students. \n\nhttps://www.childtrends.org/publications/most-state-policies-that-address-lgbtq-students-in-schools-are-affirming-despite-recent-trends-toward-exclusion"}">I am a graduate student with Masters degrees in Public Health and Applied Gender Studies. My research centers the lived experiences of transgender populations and it is a fact that gender-affirming policies for trans youth are LIFE-SAVING! Research demonstrates that affirming policies—which provide explicit, enumerated protections (i.e., a specific list of protections)—are associated with reduced rates of bullying and suicide, among other outcomes. "While statutes and regulations that protect and affirm LGBTQ+ students in schools remain more common than those that exclude them, the recent increase in exclusionary state policies contradicts a research base showing that student outcomes are best served in supportive environments."

Virginia was my home as a child and I loved going to school there. It would break my heart to see Virginia school systems become a place that allows bigotry and hatred to override it's dedication to the protection and support of ALL students.

https://www.childtrends.org/publications/most-state-policies-that-address-lgbtq-students-in-schools-are-affirming-despite-recent-trends-toward-exclusion


Trans Rights are Human Rights

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<p>I strongly oppose this and any future legislation that puts trans youth at risk.  Do not cause more children’s deaths.  </p>


Strongly Oppose

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Schools are meant to educate and teach students how to interact in society. Trans rights should be addressed and those that do not want their students to learn how to interact with modern society can home school. I oppose this legislation.


Oppose

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"As a licensed professional counselor and adjunct faculty in counselor education, I vehemently opposed about the proposed legislation (2022 Model Policies). These policies violate the rights of students, parents, and school personnel and will be deeply damaging to the mental health of young people.  All children have the right to learn in an environment that is safe, supportive, and honors their identity. Research has consistently shown that that policies like these contribute to harassment and discrimination against trans and nonbinary students.  The misgendering of young people has consistently been shown in research to be contribute to depression and suicidal ideation. I worry deeply about the long-term impacts of such legislation if it is adopted. This is not the policy we need and is deeply discriminative and hurtful. We must do better for our children. We must reject the adoption of the 2022 Model Policies."}'>As a licensed professional counselor and adjunct faculty in counselor education, I vehemently opposed about the proposed legislation (2022 Model Policies). These policies violate the rights of students, parents, and school personnel and will be deeply damaging to the mental health of young people. All children have the right to learn in an environment that is safe, supportive, and honors their identity. Research has consistently shown that that policies like these contribute to harassment and discrimination against trans and nonbinary students. The misgendering of young people has consistently been shown in research to be contribute to depression and suicidal ideation. I worry deeply about the long-term impacts of such legislation if it is adopted. This is not the policy we need and is deeply discriminative and hurtful. We must do better for our children. We must reject the adoption of the 2022 Model Policies.


STRONGLY OPPOSED

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<p>Stop making life harder for people who are already vulnerable. </p>


I strongly oppose

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The 2022 Model policies for students and parents in Virginia model schools is extremely harmful and discriminatory for trans and LGBTQ+ students and the policies listed should be greatly amended.

The basis of the discrimination falls on the fact that it fails to protect trans students’ rights to peace and comfort at school. The policy aims to be “consistent with maintaining a respectful, distraction-free environment which supports a focus on learning for all students” but the policies do the exact opposite of that for trans students. Namely, students whose parents are discriminatory against their gender identity, or students who would be at risk of harm or abandonment for coming out, will not be able to comfortably go about their school days while constantly being misgendered by their teachers and faculty because they will not be allowed to change the way they are addressed in school. This is just one example of the poor quality of the 2022 Model policies. They must be amended to protect the safety and basic human rights of LGBTQ+ students. These policies are also unfair to teachers who want to promote and create suitable learning environments for their students but are forced to misgender students in order to retain their jobs.

I am a current college student but am friends with many high school students who will be personally affected by these policies and who I know will have their education hindered by the emotional distress this will cause. The 2022 Model policies must be amended. Please listen to the youths who are taking stands and using their first amendment rights to speak against this. They are the ones personally affected by these policies, and those who seek to enact this legislation fail to recognize the real world consequences of taking away fundamental LGBTQ+ rights.


Don't deny the protection of all children.

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Why are we still doing this? Who is really being threatened? We can't deny what this policy will actually do, with evidence based in reasoning and science we know the truth. This policy will hurt more people, than it's attempt at making some parents comfortable. In the long run what we see time and time again is that as children grow and explore the world they will figure out their identity more and more, whether their parents want them to or not. Your children will grow to resent you. We must let people discover on their own, who they are, and protect all by any means, even if they have different identities. \n\nThis policy comes from fear, hate, and pain. The pain that exists among individuals who simply were never allowed to think critically about their essence and spiritual reality. Never given the room to question what was around them, told to not talk out of line, and that respect was not given but earned. The pain of learning to follow social norms dictated to them that there is only one right way to live. If this was the case, why do some have to create policies like these in the first place?  There is nothing wrong with learning from our past mistakes and for becoming a civilization that is modern. We can still have faith and understand that science should not be ignored. That we can be more than tolerant but be accepting. \n\nStop making Virginia something to laugh at. We must do more to protect our citizens. Please do not do this. It will be okay. Youngkin will receive more support for not doing this."}">Why are we still doing this? Who is really being threatened? We can't deny what this policy will actually do, with evidence based in reasoning and science we know the truth. This policy will hurt more people, than it's attempt at making some parents comfortable. In the long run what we see time and time again is that as children grow and explore the world they will figure out their identity more and more, whether their parents want them to or not. Your children will grow to resent you. We must let people discover on their own, who they are, and protect all by any means, even if they have different identities.

This policy comes from fear, hate, and pain. The pain that exists among individuals who simply were never allowed to think critically about their essence and spiritual reality. Never given the room to question what was around them, told to not talk out of line, and that respect was not given but earned. The pain of learning to follow social norms dictated to them that there is only one right way to live. If this was the case, why do some have to create policies like these in the first place? There is nothing wrong with learning from our past mistakes and for becoming a civilization that is modern. We can still have faith and understand that science should not be ignored. That we can be more than tolerant but be accepting.

Stop making Virginia something to laugh at. We must do more to protect our citizens. Please do not do this. It will be okay. Youngkin will receive more support for not doing this.


Strongly Oppose

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trans rights are human rights. children should not live in fear for who they are.


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 strongly oppose this policy. I myself am trans and can remember how uncomfortble I was in elementary school when I was still using a bathroom that didn't allign with my gender identity. Now I'm using gender neutral bathrooms and locker room and am being referred to by my preferred name and pronouns (for the most part). I know I would be extremely uncomfortable and upset if I was constantly being misgendered and deadnamed and even more so if I had to use the women's bathrooms. School would be unbearable! And, although I have supportive parents, I know someone who doesn't and there are many trans people with transphobic parents who would be even more affected by this than I am. Please don't let this policy go into affect for the safety and comfort of all transgender students in Virginia."}">I strongly oppose this policy. I myself am trans and can remember how uncomfortble I was in elementary school when I was still using a bathroom that didn't allign with my gender identity. Now I'm using gender neutral bathrooms and locker room and am being referred to by my preferred name and pronouns (for the most part). I know I would be extremely uncomfortable and upset if I was constantly being misgendered and deadnamed and even more so if I had to use the women's bathrooms. School would be unbearable! And, although I have supportive parents, I know someone who doesn't and there are many trans people with transphobic parents who would be even more affected by this than I am. Please don't let this policy go into affect for the safety and comfort of all transgender students in Virginia.


It is a grave mistake to pass this.

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It is a grave mistake to pass this.


STRONGLY OPPOSE

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All changes should be rejected. Support our LGBTQ students! Transgender students deserve to be fully supported in their identity and safe in their school environment.


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Stop using trans kids as pawns. They already are dealing with so much!


Don't Put Transgender Students At Risk

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<p>I don't agree with the Governor's Transgender plan and believe that the focus needs to be on provision of a quality education for all students regardless of how they identify themselves.  I believe the plan will create hostility both at home and in the classroom for these students.  If it hasn't been a problem for the teachers and the students in the past why is it a problem now.  Parents have always had the opportunity to get involved in making decisions about the education of their kids.  However, how many of them actually attend parent/teacher conferences; get to know the teachers of their kids; or participate in PTA.   </p>


HAVE SOME COMPASSION AND EMPATHY - OPPOSE MODEL POLICIES

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I am a resident of Chesterfield County, a registered and committed voter, an educated white cis-woman, and mother with a child in the public school system. I oppose the 2022 VDOE model policies that would hinder the rights of transgender kids in the classroom.

I've had the pleasure of knowing people who identify as transgender since I was in high school myself (I graduated in 2005). I have met trans folks at all stages of their identity, both pre- and post-op. One overarching quality of their experience has been a dire need for support, understanding, and compassion when they were young and beginning to discover themselves for the first time. For many of them, the discovery that they were different (but how?) happened while they were in their tweens, with some even younger. A few had understanding parents and a few didn't; those that didn't had to rely mostly on friends.  In the early aughts, it would have been unlikely that their peers had the life experience or vocabulary to provide the support their trans friend needed. They would have been lucky to have other supportive adults available.

The most recent data shows that 82% of transgender folks have struggled with suicidal ideation and 40% of them have made an attempt. Just this year, I was thankfully able to help a new friend in need and walk her back from the edge. That would have been attempt number two, however. Attempt number one had her leaping in front of a subway train and losing part of her leg. Her experience as a young person was tumultuous at best and she struggled with social isolation and addiction for years before she was able to make peace with and embrace her identity as a trans woman. Her parents knew she was different and wanted nothing more than for her to be happy, but they struggled to understand and provide the support she really needed. Had she been able to rely on friends or other trusted adults in her adolescence, she may have been able to embrace herself sooner. She may have been able to avoid two decades of debilitating depression, of pain and suffering. She may have been able to finish college and to become a contributing member of society. As it stands, she's 35 and starting her life over as the woman she was always meant to be. Despite starting over from the bottom, transitioning to a woman has made her happier and more fulfilled than she has ever been.

The fact of the matters is that gender dysphoria is a very real phenomenon that has existed for a very long time, and while the experience may be foreign to the vast majority of people, that doesn't make it any less real for those who go through it. It's not something that can be scared away and the more a person tries to repress it, the harder it is for them to survive. Everyone needs a safe place. For some kids, it may only be at school amongst their friends and with teachers who are happy to make them feel accepted. Some kids may be threatened with abuse or homelessness if they were to be their real selves at home.

Trans kids themselves are not the threat. There is no Kool-Aid; there is no indoctrination. What's different from the past (even the past as recent as 2005) is that it is easier than ever to make connections to people around the world and to educate oneself on the experience of life. Any person, any kid, can type into a Google search: "why do I feel the way I do?" and in seconds have resources and access to communities that affirm what they are feeling. What makes any person having ANY experience less deserving of recognition and dignity?

I wanted to provide a comment because a set of unique life experiences makes me a proud trans ally, and I think it's important for people to realize that trans people aren't mutants and certainly not perverts - they are real people going through life, having real experiences, and interacting with the world the same way anybody else would. The same respect you show your own contemporaries and your own children should be bestowed upon transgender people of all ages, since they are part of humanity on a more interesting path. Any policies for education need to extend humanity, dignity, compassion, and safety to ALL those it covers and not exclude anyone because their experience might be more complicated or less relatable. Anything otherwise is glorified bullying and our schools - our countries, our world - don't need any more of that.


Oppose


100% OPPOSE this horrible policy

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<p>As a former educator of 10+ years, this policy is absolutely disheartening and disgusting, to be honest.  We need to care for and protect ALL children. If Youngkin really cared about children, he'd be pro-universal, free pre-K; free universal healthcare (which includes reproductive justice); and would try to push legislation that actually HELPS children. </p>


Do Better.

I have worked in our school systems in far Southwest Virginia for six years now. I would love to share RISING survey statistics from students that identify with a different gender or a non-hetero sexual orientation. These students are bullied, feel they have NO support and often talk of suicide. Being able to offer resources, a safe space and a voice to these students is the most amazing part of my job. But knowing that basic human rights continue to be trampled and having to try to talk to these students as to the WHY - I just can't answer. Living in a rural area is challenging enough without having politicians that hardly even notice our area making choices for the people in it. Do Better.It doesn't matter that you don't agree, or don't understand - every youth in America deserves these rights. Do the right thing.

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"I have worked in our school systems in far Southwest Virginia for six years now.  I would love to share RISING survey statistics from students that identify with a different gender or a non-hetero sexual orientation.  These students are bullied, feel they have NO support and often talk of suicide.  Being able to offer resources, a safe space and a voice to these students is the most amazing part of my job.  But knowing that basic human rights continue to be trampled and having to try to talk to these students as to the WHY - I just can't answer.  \nLiving in a rural area is challenging enough without having politicians that hardly even notice our area making choices for the people in it.  \nDo Better.\nIt doesn't matter that  you don't agree, or don't understand - every youth in America deserves these rights.  Do the right thing.  "}">I have worked in our school systems in far Southwest Virginia for six years now. I would love to share RISING survey statistics from students that identify with a different gender or a non-hetero sexual orientation. These students are bullied, feel they have NO support and often talk of suicide. Being able to offer resources, a safe space and a voice to these students is the most amazing part of my job. But knowing that basic human rights continue to be trampled and having to try to talk to these students as to the WHY - I just can't answer.
Living in a rural area is challenging enough without having politicians that hardly even notice our area making choices for the people in it.
Do Better.
It doesn't matter that you don't agree, or don't understand - every youth in America deserves these rights. Do the right thing.


STRONGLY oppose.

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<p>These policies would ENDANGER trans youth. </p>


We aren’t much different from you

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<p>Please stop subjecting children to discrimination for simply being alive. </p>


Strongly oppose

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<p>The same organizations we look to for guidance on all other children’s health matters say transgendered youth should be protected from policies like this - their identities matter more than politics </p>


I SUPPORT Gov Youngkin's Policy on transgender students

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As a mother of both male and female children I strongly support Governor Youngkin's policies for transgender students. We must affirm the fact that girls are girls and boys are boys. To do otherwise is to perpetuate a lie. Girls or boys who have gender dysphoria should be provided counseling to help them accept their gender and not be told the lie that medical doctors can change their biology from male to female or vice versa. Girls and boys sex specific activities, sports, and facilities must use a student's true gender which is determined by biology.


Oppose Policy Recommendation

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These policies are contrary to state law and their adoption will result in rampant violations of the rights of students, parents, and school personnel, and will inflict serious harm on transgender and nonbinary students.

All students should be safe, welcomed, and included in Virginia’s public schools. I oppose the 2022 Model Policies in their entirety and demand that the VDOE rescind them, leaving the existing 2021 Model Policies in place.


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 OPPOSE the new proposed policy! Having grown up in Virginia, I've been a student in VA schools as well as a school volunteer. I'm also genderqueer and a member of my church's LGBTQ+ group. So I understand the importance of gender-affirming and protective policies for our kids who are trans, nonbinary, or otherwise gender nonconforming. It isn't about being woke, it's about keeping students from being harmed and respecting their abilities to know who they are. Those in schools deserve the right to be themselves and be safe. The proposed policy will harm students as well as the teachers and staff in schools. The Virginia Department of Education should reject the new policy."}">I OPPOSE the new proposed policy! Having grown up in Virginia, I've been a student in VA schools as well as a school volunteer. I'm also genderqueer and a member of my church's LGBTQ+ group. So I understand the importance of gender-affirming and protective policies for our kids who are trans, nonbinary, or otherwise gender nonconforming. It isn't about being woke, it's about keeping students from being harmed and respecting their abilities to know who they are. Those in schools deserve the right to be themselves and be safe. The proposed policy will harm students as well as the teachers and staff in schools. The Virginia Department of Education should reject the new policy.


Oppose

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I have a transgender nephew who lives in Texas and came out in his teenage years. His school was very supportive and that was critical in helping him make the transition with relative ease. He is now about to graduate college with stellar grades and lots of extracurricular activities.
I am opposed to the proposed guidelines which will increase mental health issues in our children.


Strongly Opposed

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These “model policies” endanger the safety and well-being of trans & nonbinary youth.

Trans rights are human rights. Studies have consistently shown that transgender youth have higher rates of suicide, depression, and anxiety. These proposed model policies will lead to increased bullying and harassment of marginalized youth at school.

Governor Youngkin’s administration is prioritizing politics over the dignity, respect, and support of ALL students. ALL students should feel that they belong and are in a welcoming environment at school. These proposed model policies do the opposite for our marginalized youth and do not align with the mission of Virginia public schools to support ALL students and staff.


OPPOSE! TRANS LIVES MATTER

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<p>Youngkin's proposed policy will undoubtedly result in more dead queer youth. </p>


Oppose

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I oppose the guidance. No one should be intimidated to go to school or participate in activities of daily living based on their gender...wherever their gender might lay on the spectrum.


Oppose

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I strongly oppose the guidance. Protect ALL kids! We all are able to see "others" as HUMAN when we meet them as individuals! Everyone should be allowed to be themselves, safely.


STRONGLY OPPOSED

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I am so disappointed that our governor has issued these policies. Identifying as transgender or non-binary (TGNB) is a process that starts socially. Young people will test out names, identity, gender expression etc within their social circles long before they come out to a parent or other family member in most cases. These policies effectively prohibit that social exploration and transition. Other steps in the transition process are usually predicated on the individual having lived as the gender they identify with for some period of time and these policies limit an individual's right to do that safely until they are 18 or out of the public school system. In addition, for students who have transitioned or are stealth, these policies will unfairly out them and compromise their safety.

Furthermore, mental health among teens is very much a public health crisis - not just in Virginia but across the nation. The statistics show that TGNB youth report more than FOUR TIMES greater rates of suicide attempts compared to their cisgender peers. From the Trevor Project, TGNB students who reported gender identity acceptance from school professionals reduced their odds of attempting suicide by 33 percent. Studies have also shown that acceptance and support of TGNB students at school is also beneficial to the mental health of non-TGNB students as well. Shouldn't we be doing everything we can to protect the mental health of our young people?

Governor Youngkin claims to protect the lives of ALL Virginians. TGNB students in public schools deserve to be protected to the same extent as cisgender students.


Oppose

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Rather than protecting kids, anti-trans policies put students in real danger. It is antithetical to the educational experience to have your identity erased, ignored, or belittled; give students the right to be who they are and to decide when, where, and to whom they share their stories.


Strongly Oppose This Hateful Policy

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This policy will expose kids to extreme hate, discrimination, bullying, violence, and ostricization. It will not protect our children, but instead will harm them. Suicide rates will go up. Assault rates will go up. The effect this will have on mental health will be detrimental. Protection through the restriction and denial of basic human rights is not the answer. Stop othering people. Start accepting them for who they are. TALK to them. PARENT them. BE THERE for them.


Oppose

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"Our family recently moved to the DMV from out of state. We explored neighborhoods across Virginia, Maryland, and DC, but ultimately decided that VA was not a viable option because of the threat of legislation against LGBTQ+ children. We have taken our family, our businesses, and our sizable tax dollars to DC because it was a safer option for our children than Virginia. I hope VA law makers oppose this bill because it’s the morally right thing to do. But if not, I hope they oppose this bill because of the financial impact on the state."}'>Our family recently moved to the DMV from out of state. We explored neighborhoods across Virginia, Maryland, and DC, but ultimately decided that VA was not a viable option because of the threat of legislation against LGBTQ+ children. We have taken our family, our businesses, and our sizable tax dollars to DC because it was a safer option for our children than Virginia. I hope VA law makers oppose this bill because it’s the morally right thing to do. But if not, I hope they oppose this bill because of the financial impact on the state.


I Support Gov Youngkin's Proposal to Give Power to the Parents, not the Schools

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Schools should focus on teaching basic skills needed to survive in this world...not to indoctrinate our children on leftist liberal social ideas.


Opposing institionalized cissexism, even from California

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I oppose all cissexist/anti-trans policies implemented, or in the process of being implemented, in all schools, be they in Virginia or anywhere else in the US.


Oppose

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A person does not need a legal document or court order to know who they are. Neither should the schools.


Oppose

I am writing to ask that representatives oppose Governor Youngkin’s model policies. These proposed policies are dangerous, and should not be allowed to pass.Many studies have shown that transgender and gender nonconforming people face a much higher risk of violence and discrimination than the general population (summaries of these statistics can be found at many sites, such as these:https://vawnet.org/sc/serving-trans-and-non-binary-survivors-domestic-and-sexual-violence/violence-against-trans-andhttps://case.edu/lgbt/safe-zone/statisticshttps://www.hrc.org/news/new-cdc-data-shows-lgbtq-youth-are-more-likely-to-be-bullied-than-straight-cisgender-youth)Transgender and GNC youth are already at high risk for bullying, which may contribute to the disproportionately high rates of mental health struggles within the community. The teens who will be targeted by these policies are already at a high risk for suicide attempts and other risky behavior. By instituting these model policies, which will forcibly “out” trans youth to their parents and peers, our state would increase opportunities for trans youth to experience bullying and harassment. This could put an already vulnerable group at even higher risk of victimization. These statistics are anecdotally supported by all trans/GNC people I have met, who have expressed being harassed in public spaces such as restrooms. Forcing students to use public restrooms corresponding to their gender assigned at birth could put students in dangerous situations, especially for “assigned male at birth” young transgender women and non-binary students, who already face alarmingly high rates of violence. The model policies in question are not evidence-based for supporting students’ educations or the school communities. They will not support “privacy, dignity, and respect for all students and parents in Virginia’s public schools”. Rather, they will do the opposite by forcibly requiring students to disclose private information to parents and teachers, and by putting them in dangerous situations.To speak from personal experience, my younger cousin is trans, and attempted suicide a few years ago after experiencing an excessive amount of bullying at school. I cannot imagine how they would have coped with that situation if the additional pressures of these policies were placed upon them. To protect the lives of our state’s youth, please oppose Governor Youngkin’s model policies.

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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 writing to ask that representatives oppose Governor Youngkin’s model policies. These proposed policies are dangerous, and should not be allowed to pass.\n\nMany studies have shown that transgender and gender nonconforming people face a much higher risk of violence and discrimination than the general population (summaries of these statistics can be found at many sites, such as these:\n\nhttps://vawnet.org/sc/serving-trans-and-non-binary-survivors-domestic-and-sexual-violence/violence-against-trans-and\n\nhttps://case.edu/lgbt/safe-zone/statistics\n\nhttps://www.hrc.org/news/new-cdc-data-shows-lgbtq-youth-are-more-likely-to-be-bullied-than-straight-cisgender-youth)\n\nTransgender and GNC youth are already at high risk for bullying, which may contribute to the disproportionately high rates of mental health struggles within the community. The teens who will be targeted by these policies are already at a high risk for suicide attempts and other risky behavior. By instituting these model policies, which will forcibly “out” trans youth to their parents and peers, our state would increase opportunities for trans youth to experience bullying and harassment. This could put an already vulnerable group at even higher risk of victimization. These statistics are anecdotally supported by all trans/GNC people I have met, who have expressed being harassed in public spaces such as restrooms. Forcing students to use public restrooms corresponding to their gender assigned at birth could put students in dangerous situations, especially for “assigned male at birth” young transgender women and non-binary students, who already face alarmingly high rates of violence. \n\nThe model policies in question are not evidence-based for supporting students’ educations or the school communities. They will not support “privacy, dignity, and respect for all students and parents in Virginia’s public schools”. Rather, they will do the opposite by forcibly requiring students to disclose private information to parents and teachers, and by putting them in dangerous situations.\n\nTo speak from personal experience, my younger cousin is trans, and attempted suicide a few years ago after experiencing an excessive amount of bullying at school. I cannot imagine how they would have coped with that situation if the additional pressures of these policies were placed upon them. To protect the lives of our state’s youth, please oppose Governor Youngkin’s model policies."}'>I am writing to ask that representatives oppose Governor Youngkin’s model policies. These proposed policies are dangerous, and should not be allowed to pass.

Many studies have shown that transgender and gender nonconforming people face a much higher risk of violence and discrimination than the general population (summaries of these statistics can be found at many sites, such as these:

https://vawnet.org/sc/serving-trans-and-non-binary-survivors-domestic-and-sexual-violence/violence-against-trans-and

https://case.edu/lgbt/safe-zone/statistics

https://www.hrc.org/news/new-cdc-data-shows-lgbtq-youth-are-more-likely-to-be-bullied-than-straight-cisgender-youth)

Transgender and GNC youth are already at high risk for bullying, which may contribute to the disproportionately high rates of mental health struggles within the community. The teens who will be targeted by these policies are already at a high risk for suicide attempts and other risky behavior. By instituting these model policies, which will forcibly “out” trans youth to their parents and peers, our state would increase opportunities for trans youth to experience bullying and harassment. This could put an already vulnerable group at even higher risk of victimization. These statistics are anecdotally supported by all trans/GNC people I have met, who have expressed being harassed in public spaces such as restrooms. Forcing students to use public restrooms corresponding to their gender assigned at birth could put students in dangerous situations, especially for “assigned male at birth” young transgender women and non-binary students, who already face alarmingly high rates of violence.

The model policies in question are not evidence-based for supporting students’ educations or the school communities. They will not support “privacy, dignity, and respect for all students and parents in Virginia’s public schools”. Rather, they will do the opposite by forcibly requiring students to disclose private information to parents and teachers, and by putting them in dangerous situations.

To speak from personal experience, my younger cousin is trans, and attempted suicide a few years ago after experiencing an excessive amount of bullying at school. I cannot imagine how they would have coped with that situation if the additional pressures of these policies were placed upon them. To protect the lives of our state’s youth, please oppose Governor Youngkin’s model policies.


Support

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Strongly support this policy’


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'm hopeful that the misinformed rhetoric about children and their parents who are transitioning gender identities can be removed from politics and fear-based discussions on harmful policies. I understand that only a few loud, scared biased, and angry parents are at the core of this movement and it is sad how one party has adopted the promotion of these fears to seek positions of influence in the government. Common sense and care are not part of these decisions about policies in schools, but rather driven by false assumptions made by uninformed, afraid adults. Lean towards inclusion rather than division, seek to understand perspectives that are different than your own."}">I'm hopeful that the misinformed rhetoric about children and their parents who are transitioning gender identities can be removed from politics and fear-based discussions on harmful policies. I understand that only a few loud, scared biased, and angry parents are at the core of this movement and it is sad how one party has adopted the promotion of these fears to seek positions of influence in the government. Common sense and care are not part of these decisions about policies in schools, but rather driven by false assumptions made by uninformed, afraid adults. Lean towards inclusion rather than division, seek to understand perspectives that are different than your own.


Oppose


I OPPOSE the guidance


Safe Schooling for Trans Children is Suicide Prevention

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Requiring School Administrators to “report” transgender children to their guardians on the basis that parents are the final decision makers for their children is blatantly transphobic. Children are not property. Their thoughts are not owned. If a child comes to school comfortable enough to present, identify, and act as their identifying gender that should not be questioned. Exposing a child’s assigned sex is an open invitation for verbal, mental, and physical assault from administrators, peers, and the public. Treating transgender youth’s access to schooling as something that needs to be “accommodated” is not acceptance or tolerance. It places the child in a space of vulnerability where they feel they need to advocate for themself based on who they are. That is not a burden children should have to carry. For closeted children and children who may come from transphobic homes, this is an even more serious issue. Transgender people who do not receive support from peers and family have an attempted suicide rate of over 50%. Blocking transgender children from discussing and exploring their identity amongst their peers due to the threat of report to homes that may lead to mental or even physical abuse will only make that statistic rise. Unconditionally supporting Trans Youth and allowing them to act as they feel comfortable, when they are not harming others, during the federally required school day is essential to the development of these children. Refusing to do so is an open gateway to genocide.


Oppose

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<span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":769,"3":{"1":0},"11":4,"12":0}' data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Protecting trans lives should be of utmost priority to our community, and this means creating trusting and safe relationships, not based on making choices or speaking for people with these identities, providing gender affirming health care and creating institutions capable of being inclusive to people with trans identities or who may be transitioning in any capacity.  Youngkin's efforts are based in ideas of patriarchal control and white supremacist erasure of anyone who is not cisgendered."}">Protecting trans lives should be of utmost priority to our community, and this means creating trusting and safe relationships, not based on making choices or speaking for people with these identities, providing gender affirming health care and creating institutions capable of being inclusive to people with trans identities or who may be transitioning in any capacity. Youngkin's efforts are based in ideas of patriarchal control and white supremacist erasure of anyone who is not cisgendered.


I oppose this policy

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A body part(s) does not make you, you!! Not accommodating our trans and non-binary youth is ABUSIVE and WRONG. Teach children love and acceptance, not how to hate or be hated. This proposal for the youth of Virgina is SHAMEFUL and a horrific example to our citizens of all ages.


Oppose

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The proposal to change the way LGBTQ - and PARTICULARLY trans - students are treated is barbaric and sends us so far backwards! Our youth deserve respect and for adults to be concerned about them and their mental health which would be absolutely compromised by this asinine, knee-jerk proposal


Oppose

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Children should be cared for and decisions made about their care by their parents. Logically, they would know the child best. Experts say that gender affirming care is helpful to children with gender issues. Why are we not taking the expert's advice?


Trans rights

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Trans people have the right to be themselves and not be infringed upon by the government.


Strongly Oppose!

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<p>I strongly oppose legislation that would deny trans youth the right to be seen, spoken to, and respected as the gender they feel. As a therapist that works with many children, adolescents and young adults, I know first hand the pain and suffering being denied one's identity has on a person. Mental health is already a crisis for our youth. Since covid, therapists are struggling to meet the needs of so many still in crisis. This legislation would certainly grow this need, unnecessarily. Keep politics off of our children's bodies and private decisions. </p>


Oppose

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LGBTQI kids are struggling with their own identities, school should be safe and supportive places for the to get educated without intimidation.


Obviously trans rights are human rights!!

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I vehemently support trans rights!! Equal rights for trans people!!


Dangerous for Teachers and Students

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I have loads of concerns about this policy and in particular its impact on ALL of our students.  As a Virginia teacher, I also believe it is dangerous for us.  One example is the following proposed language which is wildly broad and sets teachers and school districts up for lawsuits:  "To ensure parents are able to make the best decisions with respect to their child, school personnel shall keep parents fully informed about all matters that may be reasonably expected to be important to a parent, including, and without limitation, matters related to their child’s health, and social and psychological development."

School personnel shall Fully inform parents of All matters that might reasonably expected to be important to a parent?!?  The list of things that could fall into this all encompassing language is unending and what might be important to one parent might be viewed as expected behavior to others.

This policy is wrong on so many levels and should be struck down.


Really?!?

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<p>What is your problem with trans people. We just want to live our lives. Jeez. We’re humans too, we deserve rights! </p>


Trans students need dignity.

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as a transgender student of color (hispanic + indigenous) i feel that this policy is ridiculous, not only does this put the lives of other transgender students in danger (myself included) this new policy takes away the dignity we need. You don’t know how horrific it is when your teacher is out and the sub reads off the “official” class attendance sheet and they say your dead name, while your classmates exclaim “who’s that???” knowing that it’s you they are talking about, knowing that you will have to shamefully raise your hand as others look at you.

Knowing that some of us can’t make the change official change in school, we can only inform teachers and not make it official, we have papers and certificates and school laptops with our dead name blasted for the world to see. Knowing if we said a word to our parents about this would just bring us trouble and misfortune and possibly put us in danger.

This policy in dangers the life and dignity of transgender students.