An Urgent Call to Action for Transgender Iowans
As the landscape of LGBTQ rights in Iowa shifts dramatically, the urgency for action becomes increasingly palpable. The recent enactment of a new state law removing civil rights protections for gender identity has sent shockwaves through the community, prompting a call to action from Max Mowitz, the executive director of OneIowa, a prominent LGBTQ rights nonprofit in the state. In a recent interview, Mowitz urged transgender Iowans to take immediate steps to change the sex designation on their birth certificates before the law goes into effect on July 1st.
Navigating the changing legal terrain, Mowitz emphasized the importance of seeking legal counsel and initiating the process sooner rather than later. While the current procedure for changing the sex on an Iowa-issued birth certificate involves obtaining a notarized affidavit from a physician confirming the individual has undergone treatment to change their sex, this option will be eliminated come July. The window of opportunity is closing fast, and Mowitz is urging individuals to act swiftly to ensure their identities are accurately reflected on official documents.
The Impact of the New Law: A Profound Shift in Protections
The repercussions of the new law reverberate far beyond the realm of birth certificates. With transgender women now barred from accessing women’s bathrooms, shelters, and prisons, the legislation has far-reaching implications for the LGBTQ community in Iowa. Mowitz expressed concern that the restrictive measures could prompt an exodus of LGBTQ individuals and families from the state, particularly those with transgender members.
“We are recommending that folks get connected with an affirming lawyer,” Mowitz advises, acknowledging the challenges ahead. “For those unable to leave the state, we’re going to be right here alongside you, and we’re not going to give up on Iowa.”
The Void Left by the Removal of Gender Identity from Civil Rights Protections
The removal of gender identity from the Iowa Civil Rights Act has left a void in legal protections for transgender individuals, according to Mark Kende, a law professor at Drake University. The act, which previously safeguarded against discrimination in housing, employment, and public accommodations, served as a crucial safeguard for the LGBTQ community. With federal protections for transgender individuals also under threat, Kende warns of the potential erosion of existing legal safeguards.
Discussing the implications of the new law on a recent episode of Iowa Public Radio’s River to River, Kende highlighted the impact of executive orders signed by President Trump, which assert a binary view of biological sex. As federal protections hang in the balance, the future remains uncertain for transgender individuals seeking legal recourse in the face of discrimination.
In the wake of these sweeping changes, the imperative for action is clear. As the clock ticks towards the July 1st deadline, transgender Iowans are urged to seize the opportunity to secure their rights and legal recognition before the window closes. In a time of uncertainty and upheaval, the resilience and determination of the LGBTQ community in Iowa shine through, underscoring a commitment to standing together in the face of adversity. Contact OneIowa for support and resources to navigate the evolving legal landscape and safeguard your rights in this challenging time.
