Utah Republican State Representative Kera Birkeland, known for her anti-transgender legislation, has recently advocated for policies that further strip rights from transgender individuals. In a post on social media, Birkeland argued against transgender women being able to amend their birth certificates or access gender-affirming surgeries. This comes after U.S. Rep. Nancy Mace pushed to exclude transgender women from women’s restrooms in the U.S. Capitol.
Birkeland’s previous efforts include leading a push to ban transgender girls from high school sports and passing a law in 2022 that was partially blocked by a lawsuit. She has also proposed legislation defining “female” and “male” based on reproductive organs and prohibiting transgender individuals from using facilities that align with their gender.
Despite the Utah Supreme Court ruling that transgender Utahns have the right to change their legal status, Birkeland has continued to push for legislation restricting transgender rights. Republican lawmakers in Utah have repeatedly used misinformation about transgender individuals to garner support for such bills, including a ban on transgender minors accessing gender-affirming healthcare.
In response to the increased targeting of transgender individuals in the state, Utah House Democrats have called for inclusivity and respect. The United Nations recognizes legal gender recognition as a human right, emphasizing the importance of access to rights and services for transgender individuals. Hate crimes against LGBTQ+ Utahns have also been on the rise, highlighting the need for protection and support for marginalized communities.
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