At the Women’s Foundation for the State of Arizona, we are committed to protecting the rights of all women and girls, including transgender women and girls. There is no exception to our belief that every person deserves dignity, equality, and the freedom to live her life without discrimination or government interference.
Throughout history, women have been targeted by laws and social expectations that seek to control their bodies, limit their opportunities, and dictate their lives. We recognize those same forces at work today in efforts to deny transgender women and girls access to healthcare, education, public accommodations, and full participation in public life, like playing team sports.
These attacks are often advanced under the guise of protecting women and girls. We reject that premise. They are attacks on the rights of women and girls. Rights that are threatened when the government claims the authority to decide which women are deserving of rights, whose bodies are acceptable, and whose freedom can be sacrificed for someone else’s comfort.
“Prop 318 claims to protect women and girls, but what it really does is decide which of us count,”
Katia Jones, CEO of the Women’s Foundation for the State of Arizona.
“Prop 318 claims to protect women and girls, but what it really does is decide which of us count,” said Katia Jones, CEO of the Women’s Foundation for the State of Arizona. “We will continue to oppose any policy that singles out transgender people for restrictions that would be unthinkable if imposed on anyone else. We will not accept a vision of women’s rights that depends on the exclusion, humiliation, or subordination of some women. And we will not allow the language of safety and equality to be weaponized against the very people those principles exist to protect. For the girls means all the girls.”
The Women’s Foundation for the State of Arizona calls on our allies in the new legislative majority to pass practical legislation to improve the lives of transgender people and comprehensive non-discrimination protections for all LGBT Arizonans. We encourage everyone to join us in standing with all women and girls, and to draw the line against discrimination in any form. Progress is neither inevitable nor permanent, and we achieve equity through a steadfast commitment to defend the rights and dignity of every person. Prop 318 is a tragedy, but it is one that can be overcome.
This moment calls on us to be advocates for all. Join us at WFSA’s Gender Equity Network, stand with us as the next legislative session starts in January, and help us pass inclusive policies that truly benefit women throughout the state.
STEPS YOU CAN TAKE TODAY:
- Join our Gender Equity Network. Sign up for our email list to get timely action alerts, legislative updates, and simple ways to show up for women and girls of all identities at the Capitol and in your community.
- Check in on your transgender community. Reach out to the trans friends, family, and neighbors in your life. Let them know they’re seen, valued, and not alone, and that you’ll use your voice to protect them this legislative session and every day after.
