Protect Trans and Non-binary Kids

Last month, Governor Glenn Youngkin and the Virginia Department of Education released a draft model policy that would remove and replace 2021's model policies on the treatment of transgender (trans) and non-binary youth in schools. 

In response, thousands of students walked out at nearly 100 schools on September 27, 2022, in protest of the proposed policy that would heavily restrict the rights of transgender students in public schools. 

To show our support for transgender and nonbinary students in Virginia, we've issued the following public comment to the State Board of Education:

Shannon Strategies opposes the Virginia Department of Education’s draft model policy that removes protections for trans and non-binary youth in schools. As business leaders, we have a responsibility to speak up for youth because they are part of our community and future workforce. We believe that all students should learn in inclusive and affirming environments and must be protected from bullying, harassment, and discrimination.

This policy is rooted in bigotry and will cause more harm to trans and non-binary youth. Right now, children and youth are experiencing a mental health crisis that requires our attention and swift action. Suicide is the second-leading cause of death among young people ages 10 to 24. According to the Trevor Project’s 2022 National Survey on LGBTQ Youth Mental Health, more than 53% of transgender and nonbinary youth considered attempting suicide in the past year. Nearly 1 in 5 transgender and nonbinary youth attempted suicide. Mental health professionals are telling us that rates of depression, suicide attempts, and suicidal injuries are increasing among youth. The last thing we should be doing is pushing vulnerable students to even greater margins.

We require a lot from young people; to be resilient and navigate multiple pandemics – the COVID-19 pandemic and systemic racism – while the adults in charge fail to reduce gun violence, childhood poverty, hunger, and social disruption. Instead of adding more stressors by removing the autonomy of students, focus on fully funding schools, investing in greater mental health supports, increasing access to affordable housing, and creating pathways for long-term success.

We are disheartened to see leaders who are responsible for the protection and well-being of young people fail them time and time again. Use your position of power to ensure that every child has a high-quality education starting from early childhood until graduation. Our focus should be on ensuring children and youth are able to thrive well into adulthood, not oppressing them. Protect trans and non-binary kids!