In 2020, the U.S. Supreme Court made a landmark ruling, stating that workplace discrimination based on a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity was illegal. A year later, the Alaska State Commission for Human Rights followed suit and even added additional protections for housing and “public accommodation.” However, the state’s progress towards LGBT rights is now under threat due to the introduction of three proposed bills: SB96, HB105, and HB27.
These bills, which are hidden within language about parental rights, could potentially reverse the progress that Alaska has made. SB96 and HB105 would require parents of school-age children to opt into lectures, activities, and readings about gender identity, sexuality, and human reproduction. This could limit the education that students receive about these important topics. Additionally, students would not receive negative attendance marks for nonparticipation. HB27 addresses school-sanctioned sports and states that only those born biologically female can compete in girls’ sports.
These bills are part of a national trend of proposed legislation that attacks LGBT rights, especially those of transgender youth. According to the ACLU, there are currently over 400 proposed bills that cover everything from limiting preferred pronouns to banning drag performances. Drag queens have become a lightning rod for the justification of much of the proposed anti-LGBT legislation.
In response, both locally and nationally, drag performers are working to demystify the art form and set the record straight. They are using their platforms to educate people about the importance of acceptance and inclusivity for all individuals, regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation. Drag performers are also highlighting the need for comprehensive education on these topics in schools.
The proposed bills in Alaska have prompted a strong response from the state’s LGBT community, with advocates speaking out against them. They argue that the bills would roll back the progress that has been made towards equality and that they would harm vulnerable individuals, especially transgender youth. The fight for LGBT rights in Alaska is ongoing, and advocates are determined to ensure that progress towards acceptance and inclusivity continues.
In a time when proposed legislation threatens to limit the rights and freedoms of LGBT individuals, it is crucial to remember that everyone deserves respect, dignity, and equality, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.