As a Virginian, a Christian clergyperson, and the mother of a transgender woman, I support the updates to 12 VAC 5-550.  These important updates will remove outdated language and clarify the gender change process for Virginia birth certificates. Every person in Virginia should be able to obtain documents that accurately reflect their identity and allow them to live and work in the Commonwealth without experiencing discrimination and harrassment. Every person with family in Virginia should feel comfortable visiting the Commonwealth without fear of harrassment because of their gender identity. Updates to 12 VAC 5-550 will benefit citizens of the Commonwealth and all who would enjoy visiting but hesitate to come because of the less-than-hospitable environment created by outdated assumptions and practices.