LGBTQ kids deserve our support not attacks

While the Respect for Marriage Act is a positive step, let’s remember why the legislation is so badly needed. The rights of LGBTQ Iowans are under attack. Lawmakers like Rep. Ashley Hinson and Gpv. Kim Reynolds claim to speak for parents, but their discrimination does not represent my views.

As a parent, I want what’s best for my kids. I worry about their happiness, health, and safety. I do not worry that their transgender peers are in activities with them. All kids deserve access to activities. Adults should be providing kids with opportunities to learn, grow, and play with their peers. So why are elected leaders trying to exclude kids? Shouldn’t we be encouraging kids to learn teamwork, coachability, and leadership? Why are adults modeling fear, hatred, and discrimination toward children?

Studies show that 82 percent of transgender individuals have considered suicide and 40 percent have attempted suicide. According to the Trevor Project, an advocacy group for LGBTQ youth, “LGBTQ youth are not inherently prone to suicide risk because of their sexual orientation or gender identity but rather placed at higher risk because of how they are mistreated and stigmatized in society.”

Don’t like books with LGBTQ characters, don’t read them. Don’t like drag shows at libraries, don’t attend. But don’t force your hatred or ignorance on others. It’s time to stop divisive politics and work on policies to include and care for all of our kids.

Amy Adams

St. Lucas