Today, the Kansas Senate chose its conscience over fears in voting down Senate Bill 55, which would have prohibited trans athletes from participating in high school sports.
In a nation where other state legislatures have driven such unconscionable bills into law, Kansas has landed on the right side of history.
As our coalition – led by Equality Kansas, GLESN, and URGE: Unite for Reproductive & Gender Equity among others – has said, our state is a welcoming state and we cherish our neighbors and prioritize genuine connections.
This bill did not adhere to our values and it would have sent a terrible message to an already vulnerable community.
Also, had it passed, it would have hurt hard-working Kansans by stifling job creation and making it difficult or impossible to attract or retain business and talent.
Bravo Kansas.
This is a great day for equality in a state forged in freedom.
Partners Message:
Kansas is a welcoming state. We cherish our neighbors and prioritize genuine connections. These bills do not adhere to Kansas values. Those of us signing this letter refuse to condone divisive legislation that is harmful to our children and disproportionately impacts vulnerable Kansans. The future of Kansas and the families that call it home, deserve better.
Kansas' reputation and values are on the line, and so is our economy.
We’ve seen firsthand how divisive legislation can impact economic opportunities. The MLB 2021 All-Star Game and corresponding events that were set in Atlanta will be moved to a new host site due to restrictive election legislation. Additionally, the NCAA has made it quite clear championships will only be hosted by states that are committed to providing a safe, healthy, and discriminatory-free environment for all student-athletes.
Kansans are hardworking. We believe the state should continue to focus efforts on job creation, support for entrepreneurial efforts, and attracting and retaining top talent. Kansas chambers and business leaders have voiced concerns over discriminatory legislation that endangers the welcoming environment Kansans deserve. Without a doubt, this legislation will hurt our economy.
We strongly encourage you to sustain the Governor’s veto on SB 55, HB2183, and HB 2332 and support legislation that continues to move Kansas forward and embraces our values.
Sincerely,
ACLU of Kansas
Education First Shawnee Mission
El Centro Inc.
Equality Kansas
GLSEN
Grandview Park Presbyterian Church
Kansas Action for Children
Kansas Appleseed
Kansas Interfaith Action
KNEA
League of Women Voters of Kansas
Loud Light Action
Mainstream Coalition
Mid-America LGBTQ Chamber of Commerce
Northeast Johnson County Chamber of Commerce
Suicide Awareness Survivor Support
URGE: Unite for Reproductive & Gender Equity
Women for Kansas
YWCA Northeast Kansas