Yesterday, Governor Jim Pillen issued a discriminatory executive order designed to marginalize and erase transgender people from public life. Abbi Swatsworth, executive director of OutNebraska, issued the following statement:
“We are deeply disturbed and angered at our governor’s continued attempts to pit two intertwined struggles against one another, all under the guise of “protecting†women.Â
Transgender rights and women’s rights are not at odds. They are a collective fight for self-determination and control of our own bodies.
Let us be clear: this executive order is a thinly veiled attack on transgender women and girls. There is no doubt that this order will erode civil rights for all Nebraskans by creating an environment where ANY woman or girl’s femininity can be called into question, resulting in invasive questioning or testing. We do not believe that everyday Nebraskans want their state government to be in the business of policing gender based on our internal and external organs.
Two-spirit, transgender, non-binary, gender expansive, and intersex people have always existed in Nebraska and they persist as valuable members of our communities.Â
Given the governor’s previous comments and actions, we are not surprised that he is trying to exert his power over our community in this way. OutNebraska will continue to push back against these attacks and strive for a Nebraska where every person can access what they need to thrive.â€
OutNebraska encourages those struggling with their mental health to seek support. Contact the Trans Lifeline at (877) 565-8860 or the Trevor Project at 1-866-488-7386.
####
OutNebraska is a non-partisan organization working to empower, celebrate and grow LGBTQ+ communities in Nebraska. For more information visit outnebraska.org