Washington made history last night by rejecting I-001, one of the first times voters have stopped an anti-trans initiative in the nation. This deceptive measure was put on the ballot by MAGA interests for the purpose of forcibly outing trans kids to abusive parents, taking away safe spaces for trans kids at schools, and deterring educators from teaching about trans people, all under the guise of so-called “parental rights.” We are proud that Washington voters saw through this deception and said no to this hateful initiative.
I-638 was part of years-long deceptive multi-billion dollar effort by MAGA forces to target trans kids for their own political gain. While the results are a disappointment, voters here in Washington and across the nation rejected candidates up and down the ballot who made trans sports bans the centerpiece of their campaigns. The fight is not over, it is just beginning. We are going to fight MAGA’s attempts to divide us in Washington at every turn, and history shows that we will win.
Many have said that I-638 is likely unconstitutional and we understand there are legal groups and organizations considering litigation.
To all trans girls participating in school sports in Washington, we want you to know that you belong: on the field, on the court, on the team. We stand with you and will continue to fight for a day when you can play sports without controversy.
And while trans girls are the most impacted, this measure has the potential to harm any girl who wishes to play sports through its invasive exam requirements. We stand with all girls who are impacted, and we will fight for them.
Thank you to the hundreds of inquiries from people who want to help. Washington’s transgender community, and especially transgender kids, who face bullying and harassment, need our support, love, and encouragement now more than ever.
We encourage all to volunteer or donate to trans-led organizations who were active in the campaign such as UTOPIA Washington, TRACTIONPNW, Lavender Rights Project, Oasis Youth Center, Ingersoll Gender Center, Gender Justice League, Diversity Alliance of Puget Sound. If you or someone you know needs support, please reach out to one of these groups.
