SIECUS condemns attacks on trans student athletes in Idaho

For Immediate Release
March 31, 2020

Contact: Zach Eisenstein
Phone: (202) 265-2405 ext 3330
zeisenstein@siecus.org

(Washington, DC) – Yesterday, Idaho Governor Brad Little signed House Bill 500, the “Fairness in Women’s Sports Act,” into law. This bill prohibits transgender students from participating in athletic programs within the state’s K-12 schools and public universities. Jennifer Driver, SIECUS’ Vice President of Policy & Strategic Partnerships issued the following statement in response: 

“We strongly condemn Governor Brad Little for signing a bill that, simply put, does nothing but alienate and dehumanize trans young people in Idaho. It is particularly shameful that this hate-filled action was taken on the eve of International Transgender Day of Visibility–an observance that celebrates the beauty and resilience of trans people across the world.

Research shows that when states and school districts implement supportive policies that affirm transgender and nonconforming young people, they experience less discrimination and are more engaged in school. Unfortunately, this is far from a reality in Idaho. In fact, most LGBTQ youth in the state report hearing anti-LGBTQ remarks from the very school staff who are charged with keeping them safe.

Anti-trans laws like House Bill 500 further harm these young people that already experience verbal harassment, physical violence, and sexual assault at alarming rates compared to their cisgender peers.

We stand committed to joining partners in Idaho in fighting back against transphobic policies like these–and remain firm in working to advance inclusive policies that ensure safety and support for all young people nationwide.”

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SIECUS: Sex Ed for Social Change has served as the national voice for sex education for 55 years, asserting that sexuality is a fundamental part of being human, one worthy of dignity and respect. Through policy, advocacy, education, and strategic communications efforts, SIECUS advances sex education as a vehicle for social change—working toward a world where all people can access and enjoy sexual and reproductive freedom as they define it for themselves.