Happy Pride Month, Iowa youth

Happy Pride Month to the school librarians forced to take books off shelves. You tried your best to provide a safe haven. We see and appreciate your efforts.

Happy Pride Month to young trans athletes. You shouldn't have to give up who you are to play the sport you love.

Happy Pride Month to K-12 students who's bathroom usage is now a topic of conversation. Your dignity should never be someone else's political bargaining chip.

Happy Pride Month to our children who live in fear because we stood by as their rights got chipped away.

Happy Pride Month to everyone 18 or above. Along with your full license, you've now earned the right to be openly queer, but that is increasingly in danger. I implore you to stay, and help us make things better. Protest. Vote. Write letters, send emails, leave voicemails. Be the change they fear we are.

Iowa laws regarding LGBTQ Youth:

SF496 (2023) - Requires that schools out transgender students to their parents, and censors discussion of LGBTQ issues and identity.

SF482 (2023) - Bans transgender people, including students, from using K-12 school facilities consistent with their gender identity. Allows a school to be investigated and sued for potential noncompliance.

HF2416 (2022) - Bans transgender female students from participating in female, women’s or girls’ sports in K12 and college.

SF538 (2023) - Ban on medically necessary best practice care for transgender youth.

Ashna Karia

Cedar Rapids