OutNebraska
Abbi Swatsworth
Executive Director
Abbi@outnebraska.org
Transgender youth sports ban passes, OutNebraska Responds
LINCOLN, NEB – In response to today’s vote on LB 89, OutNebraska Executive Director Abbi Swatsworth issued the following statement:
We are deeply disappointed by the decision to pass LB 89, a sports ban with unclear enforcement that will directly harm transgender students.
This bill imposes restrictions on transgender youth and college students, limiting participation in sports according to definitions not based in science. LB 89 narrowly defines sex, which further marginalizes an already vulnerable community and creates openings for future discrimination. LB 89 will definitely create harm and uncertainty for Nebraska’s transgender, non-binary, and intersex residents, as well as all women in Nebraska, cis or trans.
It is clear to us that too many senators ignored the hundreds of heartrending stories from impacted constituents who called or came to their offices. This is not what everyday Nebraskans want our legislators to do. We still need real solutions to the real problems facing working people and families.
Together, we built a strong coalition of partner organizations, community advocates, and impacted people who worked tirelessly to defeat the bill. While this is not a day to celebrate, we will still move forward, and we only get stronger together. This isn’t the end.
Coalitions are how we continue to build our power, not just during session but all year long. Because the work does not end here. We encourage you to stay involved. Sign up for our OutNebraska mailing list. Work with us to continue thanking and holding lawmakers accountable. Be an informed and active voter in local and state elections.
OutNebraska remains committed to our vision of Nebraska communities that embrace and celebrate the full spectrum of LGBTQ+ people. We stand with you today, tomorrow, and into the future as the generational work to build a better Nebraska continues.
We understand how harmful the current session and overall climate have been for our community, especially transgender Nebraskans. We see you, we hear you, and we are with you. If you or someone you know needs support, please reach out:
- The Trevor Project: 1-866-488-7386
- Trans Lifeline: 877-565-8860
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988
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OutNebraska is a non-partisan, nonprofit organization working to empower, celebrate, and grow thriving LGBTQ+ communities in Nebraska. For more information, visit outnebraska.org.