What does a parent say have to say about I-001 & I-638?

Michael Westgaard, Seattle

The harmful ballot measure I-638 is a clear attack on trans youth and girls’ sports. 

I’ve volunteered for many sports leagues to support my children playing sports. I’ve watched my daughter play basketball games against trans girls and guess what? It wasn’t an issue at all! I-638 is an attempt to ban trans kids from sports, and will ultimately put ALL girls at risk of harm by forcing many to undergo invasive genital exams. I’m outraged that my daughter could be subjected to such a traumazing examination just to play basketball with her friends. A hundred doctors and medical professionals have said genital exams for sports physicals are medically unnecessary. Yet this new requirement will undoubtedly discourage all girls from playing.

I’ve seen firsthand the benefits that young girls get from sports, from building teamwork to improved self-esteem. I-638 would take this away and create a barrier for girls’ sports. We should be removing barriers to get more kids to play. I hope voters will join me in voting No on I-638.