No Hate In WA State

There will be two initiatives on our fall ballot, both are anti-trans. One would repeal the Safety Act, which would force teachers and school counselors to out their students to their parents.  We know that schools are often a safe place where kids can figure themselves out before coming out to their families, and this could have disastrous consequences. The other would require all girls who want to play school sports to get a genital exam or a hormone/genetic test. Not only would this be invasive, it would be potentially dangerous, and definitely classist. I can't see a way that they could possibly hold those free sports health checks in the mall anymore for girls.

Both of these initiatives were self-funded by a wealthy hedge fund manager who moved here from California. He was also responsible for the suite of anti-tax initiatives two years ago. This is a wedge issue, attempting to fear monger when we already have wonderful school and sports policies that have been working in our state for a long time, protecting all children.  

NO Hate in WA State is the organization working state-wide to encourage a NO vote on both initiatives.  Even with our tax status, our church has always been able to endorse policy, and I encourage us to "speak out boldly on social issues" as our UMC Social Principles encourages. It is so important to demonstrate our Christian values, especially when others claim to speak on our behalf.

Our church is clear that we stand with the LGBTQ+ community, and with all the vulnerable and marginalized. At my encouragement, our Church Council recently voted to endorse NO Hate in WA State and you will now find our logo on their long list of endorsers. If you are so moved, I encourage you to endorse them personally with your prayers, presence, gifts, service, and witness.  

— Marcy LaViollette