I live in Arlington, Virginia and I strongly oppose Petition 432.

This petition is not about protecting public health — it is about targeting and dehumanizing transgender people. The Virginia Board of Health should never be in the business of declaring who is or isn’t a threat based on their identity. Trans women are not a public health threat — hate is.

There are urgent health challenges facing women and girls across Virginia — including the maternal mortality crisis, access to reproductive health care, mental health support, and preventing intimate partner violence. This petition is a distraction from those real issues and undermines the Board's responsibility to protect the well-being of all Virginians.

I live in a diverse, welcoming community. Here in Arlington, we value fairness, dignity, and respect for all. "Virginia is for Lovers" isn't just a slogan — it should reflect a moral commitment to care for one another. And that care must include our transgender neighbors, family members, coworkers, and friends.

I am deeply concerned about the harm this petition will cause if taken seriously. It sends a message that some Virginians are less worthy of safety, respect, or belonging. That message fosters stigma and real-world violence. Trans youth and adults already face disproportionate risks to their mental and physical health. We should be protecting them, not targeting them.

This petition is rooted in fear, not facts. It has no place in a compassionate, just society. I urge the Board to reject Petition 432 and affirm your commitment to public health for all.

Trans people belong in Virginia. Hate does not.

Sincerely,

Ann McCreedy