Today, Progress Iowa executive director Matt Sinovic and press secretary Parker Williamson issued the following statements in response to a gender discrimination legislation moving through the Iowa House and Senate.
Progress Iowa executive director Matt Sinovic:
“How do Governor Reynolds and Iowa Republicans justify rushing a bill to legalize discrimination? This bill is a stain on Iowa’s history books. And prioritizing it ahead of any other legislation tells constituents exactly what they stand for. Republicans would rather see ‘No Trans Allowed’ signs litter Iowa establishments than ensure every Iowan has the freedom to secure shelter, safety and financial security. Iowans have been clamoring to stand up for themselves and their neighbors. Republicans have been ignoring them. Absent in this public fight is the voice Iowa businesses and the voice of Iowa employers. They should be fighting brain drain, filling tens of thousands of jobs in need of applicants, and ensuring Iowa is a safe and diverse place where people have the freedom to live, work and raise their families. This is not the future Iowans deserve. Those who care about this issue have little time to say so and should call their legislators immediately.”
Progress Iowa press secretary Parker Williamson:
“Governor Reynolds and Republicans have proven that taking away my rights is a priority over any other issue. I wish they would better fund public schools, like the rural one I attended, support efforts to clean up Iowa water, and make sure Iowans don’t go hungry. But instead of focusing on what Iowans need, or even what they want, Republicans built an expressway for legislation that threatens every aspect of my life. Iowa Republicans are making it so any Iowan who is trans or appears trans can be denied a rental, mortgage, meal or haircut—and more—based on our appearance.
I know most Iowans don’t want this bill. Iowa Republicans are ignoring constituents to legalize trans discrimination and rush it to Governor Reynolds desk. If they think this will quiet us, they’re not only shameful but shortsighted. Iowans support civil rights for all, and we will be fighting to have leaders we deserve. Leaders who prize our rights as much as we do, and maintain them for every single Iowan.”
