As a Baptist minister, I believe strongly in the separation of church and state. Nevertheless, that separation is often misinterpreted as though people of faith ought not engage in the important social and moral matters that impact the common good. I beg to differ. 

I am here in solidarity with my transgender brothers and sisters in the faith, as well as other LGBTQ+ friends and allies, to voice my support for updating the language in 12 VAC 5-550.

I do this as a citizen of the Commonwealth of Virginia as well as a Christian minister. I also do this in recognition that the Christian church, along with the American public, continues to evolve in its understanding and acceptance of the nuances of gender identity and expression. While there is still much change yet to take place, to adopt these updates will more adequately reflect this ongoing evolution, and more importantly, respect the dignity and rights of our transgender neighbors. Thank you.