PROTECTING THE LGBTQ+ COMMUNITY
In the face of alarming hostility and legislation aimed at restricting the rights of LGBTQ+ community members across the nation, it is more crucial than ever that Colorado stand strong for justice, equality, and love.
As an elected representative, I am committed to supporting all members of our community, and that includes our LGBTQ+ friends, family members, and neighbors. We must lead and legislate with the specific intention of creating an inclusive society where everyone, regardless of who they are or who they love, is treated with respect, dignity, and affirmation. I understand the acute vulnerability of the trans community, and I promise to utilize my position to staunchly oppose any measures that threaten your rights and wellbeing.
Opposing Discrimination and Ensuring Equality
Colorado's roads and bridges are essential for our day-to-day lives, from getting to work or school to transporting goods across the state. It is crucial that we invest in maintaining, upgrading, and modernizing these critical systems to ensure safety, improve efficiency, and accommodate our growing population. I am committed to securing the resources we need for these vital improvements.
Supporting Transgender Coloradans
As we witness escalating attacks on the trans community in state houses, city councils, and school boards across the country, it's crucial that we rally in support of the rights and dignity of every trans person. In Colorado, we believe in affirming and celebrating every individual's identity. That means providing support and protection for transgender individuals, particularly trans youth who are navigating their identities in a world that too often misunderstands and misrepresents them. I will enthusiastically support policies that respect the identity and rights of all trans people in healthcare, education, employment, or any other area. We must send a clear message: Trans rights are human rights, and we will not tolerate any effort to undermine them.
Promoting Health Equity
Access to quality healthcare is a fundamental right and should never be denied on the basis of gender identity or sexual orientation. For LGBTQ+ individuals, healthcare disparities and prejudices can make access to appropriate and compassionate healthcare services more challenging. I am committed to eliminating these disparities and ensuring that all Coloradans, including those in the LGBTQ+ community, receive the quality care they deserve.
Expanding Mental Health Resources
The LGBTQ+ community faces unique mental health challenges, often exacerbated by experiences of discrimination and prejudice. We must not overlook these struggles. It's critical to improve access to mental health resources, and ensure these services are LGBTQ+-inclusive and culturally competent. Everyone should feel comfortable seeking help without fear of judgment or discrimination. By improving resources and raising awareness, we can help to break down the barriers that often prevent people from seeking the help they need.
Supporting LGBTQ+ Youth in Schools
Every child and young person deserves to grow up in an environment that loves, supports, and values them for who they are. The strength of our future lies in their hands. To ensure that LGBTQ+ youth have the opportunity to thrive, I am committed to championing inclusive education, actively combatting bullying, and safeguarding the rights of trans youth in schools, including their full participation in athletics and other activities. Together, we can create a safer, more accepting world for our young people to grow into.
Supporting the LGBTQ+ community means recognizing their rights, affirming their identities, and standing up against discriminatory policies that seek to marginalize them.
Together, we can make Colorado a state where everyone, regardless of who they are or whom they love, is treated with dignity and respect. It’s time to raise our voices, stand up for these values, and ensure every person can live authentically and unapologetically. We are in this fight together.