I live in Roanoke City, having recently moved from Botetourt County. Petition 432 is cruel and is a discriminatory action affecting a very marginalized community. To say this is a health issue truly is laughable. This is about fear and rejection of the personhood of transgender women. 

There are true public health issues facing women and girls in Virginia, like domestic violence, maternal health and poverty. Focusing attention on this takes away resources and focus on true health care matters. 

As Virginians, across our races, backgrounds and genders, we ALL deserve to be treated fairly. There is a nationwide effort by some to force transgender people and LGBTQ people out of public life. These attacks harm us all, because they foster discrimination and foster "othering" breaking down our love for and respect for others. 

A close friend of mine from church has gone through a journey learning about transgender issues as a result of her child. I have watched her integrity, research and love with admiration. Many people who are advocating this type of discrimination are not truly knowledgeable and are playing on people's fear and prejudice. This kind of policy will cause harm to this small minority of people who already face high levels of anxiety, suicidal ideations and depression. 

Please vote against this Petition. It takes us backward in Civil Rights, humanity and justice.