Dear Rep. Mike Kohler,
I was notified that you would be coming to our high school as a special guest in my senior’s U.S. Government class this recently. I thought it would be a fabulous opportunity, especially considering half of the seniors are able to vote. I feel the need to share with you the powerful impact you made on my senior.
First off, you need to know a few things about my child. They are nonbinary, they also have an older transgender sister, two other siblings, and affirming parents.
They were appalled by the unfiltered opinions you shared regarding the latest legislative session – specifically on the transgender sports ban. My child recounted numerous (confirmed) statements you made in their class about how there is “something wrong” with transgender youth, that they “need help,” that you “don’t care if they are suicidal” when it pertains to sports.
I am disappointed that you used your position of power to speak so candidly at a public school – especially your use of such disparaging language towards transgender individuals, knowing that your audience likely included LGBTQIA+ students. Our school classrooms should be a place where all students, regardless of race, religion, sexual attraction, or gender identity, feel safe and valued. Schools should be a shelter from such damaging rhetoric.
Research shows that 53% of transgender and nonbinary youth seriously consider attempting suicide. Research also shows that youth who had access to affirming homes and schools reported significantly lower rates of attempted suicide. Your unaffirming language regarding transgender youth, and your sentiments about suicidality, showed a blatant disregard for the lives of youth in our local classrooms, and across the state.
Yes, you made an impact. One that was far reaching and detrimental to the health and well-being of our students.
Olivia Petersen, Heber City
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