Planned Parenthood Advocates for DC, Maryland & NoVa (PPADMV) submits these comments in strong opposition to the Model Policies for the Treatment of Transgender Students in Virginia’s Public Schools. PPADMV is Planned Parenthood of Metropolitan Washington, DC’s and Planned Parenthood of Maryland’s shared 501(c)(4) advocacy organization.
The attacks on transgender youth by Governor Youngkin, crystallized in the Model Policies, are unspeakably cruel and put people’s health and lives at risk. They must stop. Our rights should not depend on what state we live in, yet Governor Youngkin and his allies are working overtime to attack the rights of transgender people in Virginia. The Model Policies are attempts by politicians to control Virginians’ lives, bodies, and futures in order for them to maintain power. In 2021 alone, more than 130 bills were introduced across the country to limit the rights of transgender people and 13 were enacted, making it the worst year on record for anti-transgender legislation.
When people are truly seen and cared for, their lives, their families’ lives, and their communities are better and healthier. We are committed to improving the way transgender people receive health care in our region and proudly work with the transgender community to eliminate barriers to care. LGBTQIA+ rights and reproductive rights are inextricably intertwined, both arising from the fundamental right to bodily autonomy and reproductive freedom. PPADMV will continue to be part of the fight for the right of everyone to access the health care and other support they need. We urge you to withdraw these Model Policies and protect transgender students in Virginia.