Orlando, FL: Today Governor Ron DeSantis signed four anti-LGBTQ+ bills into law at a Christian Private School in Tampa. That includes the gender affirming care ban, the bathroom ban, restrictions on drag shows and the expansion of Don’t Say LGBTQ. He also signed a bill that changes the makeup and operations of the Florida High School Athletic Association.
Below is Representative Eskamani’s statement in response.
“In Florida, diversity is our strength — not a weakness or something to demonize and be afraid of. Republicans like Governor Ron DeSantis are pushing an extreme agenda that is fueled by disinformation, isolating already marginalized people. The notion of “let kids be kids” is one we all agree with, and should also apply to LGBTQ+ kids who these bills target and erase. All four of these bills fit into the category of culture wars, but that doesn’t mean they don’t have real life consequences. Right now trans people are trying to find access to care, while many have decided to leave the state all together. Kids don’t feel safe being themselves, and we already see the continuation of diverse books being removed from school libraries. This is not the Florida I know, or a Florida that welcomes all people. We can do better, and must do better. I will keep fighting for a Florida that cares about all people, a Florida that respects personal medical decisions and embraces every family.
For those looking for a way to help, I encourage that donations be made to the Central Florida Emergency Trans Care Fund via this link.“
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