If we care about kids, it must be all kids

If the right-wing “Let Kids Be Kids” coalition really cared about kids, they would stop trying to kill the most vulnerable ones.

Thanks to hundreds of ANTILGBTQ+ proposals — especially those targeting transgender and nonbinary youth — which have proliferated across the country, we already know that these mean-spirited legislative initiatives increase the already high risks of suicide, self-harm, depression and hate crime victimization these youth face.

Contrary to what groups like “‘let kids be kids’ ” would have us believe, “outing” trans and nonbinary youth to their parents rarely has a positive outcome, and banning them from playing sports is rooted in irrational fears, not facts.

The reality is that support and affirmation from schools save lives. Research demonstrates that the simple act of using a youth’s affirmed name and pronouns helps protect against suicidal and self-harm; and the support of a single significant adult, such as a teacher or coach, helps offset the damage caused by parental rejection.

Appropriate support from schools helps transgender and non-binary youth thrive academically, socially, psychologically and physically.

We want kids to be affirmed by their parents, but for trans and nonbinary youth who aren’t so lucky, being accepted and respected for who they are in school can literally make the difference between life and death.

What is the underlying purpose of this national diatribe against our children?

I wonder if stirring people’s basest fears is a cover for a more nefarious goal?

Whatever their motivation, the bottom line is that they are hurting the very kids they say they care about. Get on your phone, email or text.

Let your legislators know that Connecticut is, and must continue to be, a sanctuary state.

Do it now.

Kids’ lives are at stake.

Robin P. Mchaelen, Manchester The writers is the founder and former executive director of True Colors, Inc.

She is an adjunct professor at Central Connecticut State University, an appointed member of Connecticut’s Hate Crimes Commission and is secretary of the LGBTQ Justice and Opportunity Network.