Missouri Officials Start Pride Month By Attacking Trans Kids

This past week, Missouri Governor Mike Parson kicked off LGBTQ Pride Month by signing two pieces of legislation attacking some of the most vulnerable kids in the state. 

As of Wednesday, trans kids in Missouri are banned from playing on the sports’ teams of their choosing and cannot seek out life-saving medical care. These laws only add fuel to a deadly fire: according to The Trevor Project, LGBTQ youth are more than four times as likely to attempt suicide than their peers. And more than half of transgender and nonbinary youth have considered suicide in the past year. These laws are nothing more than a blatant attempt to prevent trans kids from living long, happy lives.

Earlier this year, Missouri gained national attention for leading the country in anti-LGBTQ legislation. The hateful environment across the state has forced many Missourians to move states out of fear.

Anti-LGBTQ laws are fanning the flames of hate across the state. LGBTQ librarians feel less accepted at work because of book bans. Security guards at Branson’s Silver Dollar City amusement park won’t let people wear rainbows into the park.

Missourians, and especially Missouri kids, have the right to feel safe in their communities. Our elected officials should not be prioritizing laws that spread hate, fear and bullying throughout our state.

To support Missouri’s LGBTQ community, get involved with PROMO here.