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Death toll grows as Israel and Iran trade attacks for third day; Chicago Jewish group leads hunger strike for Gaza; House reconciliation bill risks job losses, higher energy bills in SD; NY group helps immigrants being detained in courthouse raids.

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Two Minnesota lawmakers are shot in politically motivated attack, as experts say political violence is becoming more common. Millions of people protest President Trump's authoritarian policies on same day as the military parade in Washington.

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EV charging stations are harder to find in rural America, improving the mental health of children and teachers is the goal of a new partnership in seven rural states, and a once segregated Mississippi movie theater is born again.

WA advocates honor Trans Day of Visibility

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Monday, March 31, 2025   

Today is the International Trans Day of Visibility, to recognize the contributions of transgender people in society -- and raise awareness of the discrimination they face worldwide.

More than 800 pieces of legislation targeting trans rights have been introduced across the nation this year alone, including eight in Washington state.

Jade Lenore Le Duff is the chief of staff with the Black and trans-led Lavender Rights Project. She said it's alarming that some politicians feel they have the power to "erase" trans people, and that it's critical to have a day that affirms trans identities.

"Especially for youth to see that, regardless of what's happening in our current political landscape, that we're still here," said Le Duff, "we're still advocating, we're still fighting."

Nearly a third of anti-trans bills nationwide target educational settings, while two bills in Olympia aim to strengthen queer and trans students' rights to privacy.

One would require a student's consent before sharing confidential medical and counseling documents. Another would amend the "Parents Right Initiative," adding a statement of students' rights.

On his first day in office, President Donald Trump signed an executive order eliminating the federal recognition and protection of transgender and nonbinary people.

Le Duff said if you're wondering how to support trans and other gender-nonconforming people -- today and every day -- start by checking in with trans people you know, and acknowledging their experience.

"I would hope they would not only join in the fight for liberation," said Le Duff, "but also in some way, shape, or form, be visible in the same ways that we are."

Le Duff said she is concerned that trans people, who represent just 0.6% of the population, are being used as political scapegoats. But, she added, she still has hope for the future.

"Regardless of the attack, regardless of the willful ignorance, we've always forged a way forward," said Le Duff, "and we will again."



Disclosure: Lavender Rights Project contributes to our fund for reporting on Civil Rights, LGBTQIA Issues, Social Justice. If you would like to help support news in the public interest, click here.


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