Yesterday a group of Iowans came together to stand up for the freedom for every Iowan to thrive, and oppose former Vice President Mike Pence spreading misinformation about our children. Pence was in Iowa to promote his out-of-state special interest group that is targeting LGBTQ youth by running dishonest and hateful political ads.
More than 80 attended the demonstration voicing support for Iowa’s youth and against the attacks pushed by Pence.
The following are excerpts of press coverage:
CBS 2 Iowa: Protest fills the street across from former VP Pence visit to Cedar Rapids
“Halane Cummings says she came to show her support for trans rights. Her son came out to her when he was 7. She said his high school, Center-Point Urbana, was very supportive to him and the family, and thinks every school should do the same.”
“Cumming says, “We told him first of all we love you—this didn’t change anything. But the acceptance he received at his high school was amazing. From the principal to the teachers to the superintendent. Everyone worked hard to be welcoming — being inclusive.”
KWWL: Iowans Stand For Transgender Students, Protest Pence
“Iowans want our kids to have the freedom to learn, to be themselves, and to grow up healthy and safe. But a handful of politicians are stoking fears among parents to put their desire for political power over our children’s futures. It’s time to stop feeding into the culture war and work toward improving the lives of Iowans.” – Aime Wichtendahl, Hiawatha City Council Member
“Everybody has a right to go to school and be safe,” said Aime Wichtendahl, a Hiawatha City Council member and the state’s first transgender elected official. “We’re here for the freedom of all students to live authentically.”
“Wichtendahl was among a group of roughly 50 protesters who held American and LGTBQ pride flags and signs that read: “Love welcomes all,” “trans rights are human rights” and “don’t legislate hate.”
