TOPEKA, Kan. — Adam Kellogg was a self-described nerdy 16-year-old preparing to board a flight from Kansas City to Florida for a space and science camp trip to Cape Canaveral when security held him up for 30 minutes because his driver’s license identified him as female.
Three years later, the University of Kansas student’s driver’s license identifies him as male, but legislative proposals in at least eight states could prevent transgender people like him from changing their driver’s licenses and birth certificates. The Republican-controlled Kansas Legislature is considering a bill that would define male and female in state law and base people’s legal gender identities on their anatomy at birth.
John Hanna, Associated Press
Adam Kellogg, center, a University of Kansas student and transgender man, follows a Kansas Senate health committee hearing on legislation aimed at preventing gender-affirming care for minors Tuesday at the Statehouse in Topeka, Kan.
Nationally, conservatives are pushing dozens of proposals in statehouses to restrict transgender athletes, gender-affirming care and drag shows. But in measures like Kansas’, LGBTQ-rights advocates see a new, sweeping effort to erase trans people’s legal existence, deny recognition to nonbinary or gender-fluid people and ignore those who are intersex — people born with genitalia, reproductive organs, chromosomes and/or hormone levels that don’t fit typical definitions for male or female.
“Something that’s really important for me is being able to just simply exist as a man, not even think about it,” Kellogg said while visiting the Statehouse with other transgender people and LGBTQ advocates.
Kellogg laughs now about his experience at the airport, but it was no laughing matter at the time. Back then, he bound the breasts that he’d later have surgically removed and, “They thought I had a bomb strapped to me.”
Doctors say reproductive anatomy at birth doesn’t always align with strict definitions of sex and that binary views of sexual identity can miss biological nuances.
LGBTQ-rights advocates say having a driver’s license or birth certificate confirm a transgender person’s identity is important by itself but also can prevent daily hassles or harassment. They believe Kansas’ bill also would prevent transgender people from using restrooms and other facilities aligned with their gender identities.
Republicans have put transgender issues at the center of their agenda, a tactic that many observers see as an effort to keep conservative voters energized and to push voters sympathetic to Democrats on other issues into the GOP camp. In the Republican response to President Joe Biden’s State of the Union address, Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders derided the Democratic president as “the first man to surrender his presidency to a woke mob that can’t even tell you what a woman is.”
John Hanna, Associated Press
Kansas state Rep. Barb Wasinger, center, R-Hays, watches a Kansas Senate health committee hearing on a proposal to define male and female in Kansas law based on people's anatomy at birth Wednesday at the Statehouse in Topeka, Kan. She's flanked by, left, Brittany Jones, attorney and lobbyist for the conservative group Kansas Family Voice, and right, Riley Gaines, a former University of Kentucky swimmer who's spoken against allowing transgender athletes to compete in girls' and women's sports.
The Kansas bill had a hearing Wednesday before the state Senate’s health committee and is similar to a Republican measure introduced in the U.S. House last year. Oklahoma’s Legislature is weighing a similar proposal, while North Dakota lawmakers are considering a resolution that would urge public schools and other “public entities” to distinguish “between the sexes according to biological sex at birth.” Mississippi lawmakers had three proposals like Kansas’, but none advanced this year.
New Hampshire, Tennessee and Texas also have proposals to define male and female in state law, and a Republican lawmaker in South Carolina has proposed an amendment to the state’s constitution to declare that legally, a person’s gender would be based on anatomy at birth, not a “psychological, chosen, or subjective experience of gender.”
“They’re afraid of what they don’t understand,” said Luc Bensimon, a transgender man who serves on Topeka’s anti-discrimination commission and is an activist for the Black Trans Advocacy Coalition.
John Hanna, Associated Press
Luc Bensimon, an activist for the Black Trans Advocacy Coalition, pauses during an interview about transgender rights issues on Feb. 10 in his hometown of Topeka, Kansas. Bensimon says a bill being considered by Kansas legislators to define male and female in state law based on people's anatomy at birth will cause panic among fellow transgender people.
The Kansas measure would declare that legally, “sex” means “biological” sex, “either male or female, at birth.” It says females have a reproductive system “developed to produce ova,” while males have one “developed to fertilize the ova.”
It’s not clear how far the measure will go, though the state Senate committee could vote before the end of the month. Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly twice vetoed bills to ban transgender athletes from girls’ and women’s club, K-12 and college sports, and she opposes restricting gender affirming care.
Supporters of the Kansas bill contend they’re responding to parents and others who are uncomfortable with “biological men” or “biological boys” sharing spaces meant for women and girls — especially bathrooms and locker rooms but also prisons and domestic violence shelters.
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Trans kids’ treatment can start younger, new guidelines say
Massimo Valicchia // NurPhoto via Getty Images
At the forefront of the movement for gay rights are transgender people, serving as the most fervent activists for the rights of queer people around the world. For the past few decades, transgender people have demonstrated their skills and passions in various fields and industries. By excelling at what they do, they have broken barriers, helping to progress social norms and attitudes toward queerness. And by using their profile and social status, these trans celebrities have acted as guiding lights to young queer people all over the world.
To that end, Stacker compiled a list of 25 prolific transgender celebrities, covering not only their individual backgrounds and bodies of work but also detailing any famous firsts they accomplished through their work and activism, if applicable. There are no politicians on this list.
These figures are actors, musicians, models, athletes, artists, and influencers. They are prominent not only for being transgender individuals in their fields but for also contributing to and advancing their fields overall. Whether they have been out their entire life or only came out in the middle of their career, they have served as inspirations to many.
Through the hardships and obstacles they faced from their peers and society, these figures have emerged in the mainstream, paving the way for more queer and trans people to follow. Read on to see which of these celebrities you recognize and whose work you have followed.
You may also like: Most famous celebrities from the year you were born
Massimo Valicchia // NurPhoto via Getty Images
At the forefront of the movement for gay rights are transgender people, serving as the most fervent activists for the rights of queer people around the world. For the past few decades, transgender people have demonstrated their skills and passions in various fields and industries. By excelling at what they do, they have broken barriers, helping to progress social norms and attitudes toward queerness. And by using their profile and social status, these trans celebrities have acted as guiding lights to young queer people all over the world.
To that end, Stacker compiled a list of 25 prolific transgender celebrities, covering not only their individual backgrounds and bodies of work but also detailing any famous firsts they accomplished through their work and activism, if applicable. There are no politicians on this list.
These figures are actors, musicians, models, athletes, artists, and influencers. They are prominent not only for being transgender individuals in their fields but for also contributing to and advancing their fields overall. Whether they have been out their entire life or only came out in the middle of their career, they have served as inspirations to many.
Through the hardships and obstacles they faced from their peers and society, these figures have emerged in the mainstream, paving the way for more queer and trans people to follow. Read on to see which of these celebrities you recognize and whose work you have followed.
You may also like: Most famous celebrities from the year you were born
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Trans kids’ treatment can start younger, new guidelines say
Stefania D’Alessandro/WireImage // Getty Images
Hailing from present-day Bosnia-Herzegovina, Andreja Pejić has modeled for both women’s and men’s clothing. Pejić has been featured on the covers of Elle, Marie Claire, and GQ, and became the first transgender model profiled by Vogue in 2015. In addition to becoming one of the most prolific transgender models in the world, Pejić has appeared as a guest judge on “Britain’s Next Top Model” and acted in 2018’s “The Girl in the Spider’s Web.”
Stefania D’Alessandro/WireImage // Getty Images
Hailing from present-day Bosnia-Herzegovina, Andreja Pejić has modeled for both women’s and men’s clothing. Pejić has been featured on the covers of Elle, Marie Claire, and GQ, and became the first transgender model profiled by Vogue in 2015. In addition to becoming one of the most prolific transgender models in the world, Pejić has appeared as a guest judge on “Britain’s Next Top Model” and acted in 2018’s “The Girl in the Spider’s Web.”
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Trans kids’ treatment can start younger, new guidelines say
Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic // Getty Images
Actor Asia Kate Dillon is the first nonbinary performer to portray a major role in an American television show, playing the character of Taylor Mason in “Billions.” They have been nominated for several Critics’ Choice Television Awards and co-starred in “John Wick: Chapter 3 - Parabellum.” Their presence in film and television has helped observers learn about the nonbinary experience and the use of singular they/them pronouns, resulting in such awards ceremonies as the MTV Awards making some of their categories gender-neutral and inclusive.
Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic // Getty Images
Actor Asia Kate Dillon is the first nonbinary performer to portray a major role in an American television show, playing the character of Taylor Mason in “Billions.” They have been nominated for several Critics’ Choice Television Awards and co-starred in “John Wick: Chapter 3 - Parabellum.” Their presence in film and television has helped observers learn about the nonbinary experience and the use of singular they/them pronouns, resulting in such awards ceremonies as the MTV Awards making some of their categories gender-neutral and inclusive.
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Trans kids’ treatment can start younger, new guidelines say
Michael Ochs Archives // Getty Images
For several decades in the 20th century, Billy Tipton was one of the most accomplished jazz musicians of his time. As a bandleader and a pianist, Tipton toured the country and released several successful albums. Tipton, assigned female at birth, changed his gender presentation in the early 1930s to fit the “jazz band image” at the time; his status as a trans man was unknown until after his death and was a surprise to even his closest friends and family.
Michael Ochs Archives // Getty Images
For several decades in the 20th century, Billy Tipton was one of the most accomplished jazz musicians of his time. As a bandleader and a pianist, Tipton toured the country and released several successful albums. Tipton, assigned female at birth, changed his gender presentation in the early 1930s to fit the “jazz band image” at the time; his status as a trans man was unknown until after his death and was a surprise to even his closest friends and family.
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Trans kids’ treatment can start younger, new guidelines say
Sarah Morris // Getty Images
One of the most prolific coming-out moments from a celebrity in the modern era was that of Caitlyn Jenner, who is a long-retired gold medalist decathlete. Jenner’s transition sparked publicity and wide discussions about the transgender experience, and she would win accolades such as the Arthur Ashe Courage Award at the ESPY Awards for sharing that of her own.
Sarah Morris // Getty Images
One of the most prolific coming-out moments from a celebrity in the modern era was that of Caitlyn Jenner, who is a long-retired gold medalist decathlete. Jenner’s transition sparked publicity and wide discussions about the transgender experience, and she would win accolades such as the Arthur Ashe Courage Award at the ESPY Awards for sharing that of her own.
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Trans kids’ treatment can start younger, new guidelines say
John Lamparski/WireImage // Getty Images
Before her successful acting career, Candis Cayne performed as a drag queen in the early 1990s. She then began to appear in film and television, including some projects by RuPaul. By 2007, Cayne had a spot on the television show “Dirty Sexy Money,” becoming the first transgender actress to portray a recurring role as a transgender character on prime time television.
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John Lamparski/WireImage // Getty Images
Before her successful acting career, Candis Cayne performed as a drag queen in the early 1990s. She then began to appear in film and television, including some projects by RuPaul. By 2007, Cayne had a spot on the television show “Dirty Sexy Money,” becoming the first transgender actress to portray a recurring role as a transgender character on prime time television.
You may also like: The best streaming services in 2021
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Trans kids’ treatment can start younger, new guidelines say
Brendan Monks/Mirrorpix // Getty Images
After the release of the 1981 James Bond film “For Your Eyes Only,” in which model Caroline Cossey appeared as an extra, British tabloids outed Cossey as a transgender woman. While the incident severely upset her, Cossey continued her modeling career and fought for trans rights in the U.K., with her efforts reaching all the way to the European Court of Human Rights.
Brendan Monks/Mirrorpix // Getty Images
After the release of the 1981 James Bond film “For Your Eyes Only,” in which model Caroline Cossey appeared as an extra, British tabloids outed Cossey as a transgender woman. While the incident severely upset her, Cossey continued her modeling career and fought for trans rights in the U.K., with her efforts reaching all the way to the European Court of Human Rights.
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Trans kids’ treatment can start younger, new guidelines say
Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic // Getty Images
As the child of Sonny Bono and Cher, Chaz Bono has received media attention since early in life. Before his transition, tabloids outed him as a lesbian, and his transition to a male began in earnest during the late 2000s. Chaz has since been a prominent LGBTQ+ activist and advocate. He proceeded to share his story in a 2011 documentary film and later competed on “Dancing with the Stars,” both of which helped to spur conversation about transgender people.
Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic // Getty Images
As the child of Sonny Bono and Cher, Chaz Bono has received media attention since early in life. Before his transition, tabloids outed him as a lesbian, and his transition to a male began in earnest during the late 2000s. Chaz has since been a prominent LGBTQ+ activist and advocate. He proceeded to share his story in a 2011 documentary film and later competed on “Dancing with the Stars,” both of which helped to spur conversation about transgender people.
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Trans kids’ treatment can start younger, new guidelines say
Slaven Vlasic/Getty Images for Tribeca Film Festival // Getty Images
Transgender athletes have always faced difficult battles within their fields due to the gender-separated nature of many events, but triathlete Chris Mosier has instigated change in sports. Through Mosier’s challenging the International Olympic Committee policy, he was able to participate in the Duathlon Age Group World Championship Race and many events afterward. Mosier was the first transgender man to compete in Olympic trials with other men, and he was the first transgender athlete to participate in the “Body Issue” of ESPN Magazine.
Slaven Vlasic/Getty Images for Tribeca Film Festival // Getty Images
Transgender athletes have always faced difficult battles within their fields due to the gender-separated nature of many events, but triathlete Chris Mosier has instigated change in sports. Through Mosier’s challenging the International Olympic Committee policy, he was able to participate in the Duathlon Age Group World Championship Race and many events afterward. Mosier was the first transgender man to compete in Olympic trials with other men, and he was the first transgender athlete to participate in the “Body Issue” of ESPN Magazine.
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Trans kids’ treatment can start younger, new guidelines say
Michael Ochs Archives // Getty Images
In the 1950s, Christine Jorgensen was the first known person to undergo sex reassignment surgery, identifying as a woman some years after her service in World War II. With her wit and cadence, Jorgensen became profiled in the news and became an advocate for transgender people while also working as an actress and a performer. As a spokesperson for transgender people, Jorgensen has remained an influential figure even decades after her death.
Michael Ochs Archives // Getty Images
In the 1950s, Christine Jorgensen was the first known person to undergo sex reassignment surgery, identifying as a woman some years after her service in World War II. With her wit and cadence, Jorgensen became profiled in the news and became an advocate for transgender people while also working as an actress and a performer. As a spokesperson for transgender people, Jorgensen has remained an influential figure even decades after her death.
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Trans kids’ treatment can start younger, new guidelines say
Cindy Ord // Getty Images
Now-retired MMA fighter Fallon Fox struggled with her gender identity for most of her early life, eventually receiving reassignment surgery. After becoming an MMA fighter in the women’s division, Fox came out as transgender, which led to controversy and debate over whether or not she would be allowed to compete against other women. While her career has ended, outlets like Outsports deemed Fox the “bravest athlete in history.”
You may also like: The best streaming services for sports in 2021
Cindy Ord // Getty Images
Now-retired MMA fighter Fallon Fox struggled with her gender identity for most of her early life, eventually receiving reassignment surgery. After becoming an MMA fighter in the women’s division, Fox came out as transgender, which led to controversy and debate over whether or not she would be allowed to compete against other women. While her career has ended, outlets like Outsports deemed Fox the “bravest athlete in history.”
You may also like: The best streaming services for sports in 2021
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Trans kids’ treatment can start younger, new guidelines say
Sarah Morris // Getty Images
Gigi Loren Lazzarato Getty, known professionally as Gigi Gorgeous, was one of the earlier makeup artists building a following on YouTube in the late 2000s. Initially identifying as a gay man, Gigi Gorgeous came out as a transgender woman in 2013. In August 2016, she was unfortunately detained at the Dubai International Airport due to her transgender status and social norms in the United Arab Emirates, which sparked calls for equal protection and reform in anti-transgender laws.
Sarah Morris // Getty Images
Gigi Loren Lazzarato Getty, known professionally as Gigi Gorgeous, was one of the earlier makeup artists building a following on YouTube in the late 2000s. Initially identifying as a gay man, Gigi Gorgeous came out as a transgender woman in 2013. In August 2016, she was unfortunately detained at the Dubai International Airport due to her transgender status and social norms in the United Arab Emirates, which sparked calls for equal protection and reform in anti-transgender laws.
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Trans kids’ treatment can start younger, new guidelines say
Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic // Getty Images
As the first transgender person to appear on the cover of a major British magazine, Hari Nef has used her modeling and acting career to speak out about trans issues. Along with her work in fashion and modeling, Nef is also a writer; her work has appeared in publications like Vice as well as a sex advice column. Her most familiar work in film and television includes appearances on the TV show “Transparent” and the film “Assassination Nation.”
Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic // Getty Images
As the first transgender person to appear on the cover of a major British magazine, Hari Nef has used her modeling and acting career to speak out about trans issues. Along with her work in fashion and modeling, Nef is also a writer; her work has appeared in publications like Vice as well as a sex advice column. Her most familiar work in film and television includes appearances on the TV show “Transparent” and the film “Assassination Nation.”
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Trans kids’ treatment can start younger, new guidelines say
Cindy Ord/Getty Images for SCAD aTVfest 2020
Model Hunter Schafer has modeled for several prominent labels, including Tommy Hilfiger and Coach. In 2019, Schafer captivated audiences with her role in HBO’s “Euphoria,” in which she co-stars as the love interest of Zendaya’s protagonist. Her role was praised by viewers and critics alike, and Schafer crafted her character’s backstory with showrunner Sam Levinson for a sense of authenticity. With “Euphoria” bringing her to fame, Schafer has been a prominent queer activist.
Cindy Ord/Getty Images for SCAD aTVfest 2020
Model Hunter Schafer has modeled for several prominent labels, including Tommy Hilfiger and Coach. In 2019, Schafer captivated audiences with her role in HBO’s “Euphoria,” in which she co-stars as the love interest of Zendaya’s protagonist. Her role was praised by viewers and critics alike, and Schafer crafted her character’s backstory with showrunner Sam Levinson for a sense of authenticity. With “Euphoria” bringing her to fame, Schafer has been a prominent queer activist.
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Trans kids’ treatment can start younger, new guidelines say
Leon Bennett/WireImage // Getty Images
Actress and model Jamie Clayton found herself drawn to the Netflix show “Sense8,” as it featured a transgender woman character written by transgender writers. Clayton portrayed the character of Nomi Marks in the series, and would go on to appear in shows, films, and video games, including “The Snowman,” “The Neon Demon,” “Designated Survivor,” and “Mass Effect: Andromeda.” In the docuseries “Equal,” Clayton even portrayed transgender icon Christine Jorgensen.
Leon Bennett/WireImage // Getty Images
Actress and model Jamie Clayton found herself drawn to the Netflix show “Sense8,” as it featured a transgender woman character written by transgender writers. Clayton portrayed the character of Nomi Marks in the series, and would go on to appear in shows, films, and video games, including “The Snowman,” “The Neon Demon,” “Designated Survivor,” and “Mass Effect: Andromeda.” In the docuseries “Equal,” Clayton even portrayed transgender icon Christine Jorgensen.
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Trans kids’ treatment can start younger, new guidelines say
Roy Rochlin // Getty Images
Seeing a significantly young and prominent trans person in the media is important for other trans children who may be going through a difficult time, and Jazz Jennings was able to offer that representation. Jennings was diagnosed with gender dysphoria at the early age of 5, and since transitioning, she has made multiple media appearances to speak about her challenges on shows like “20/20” as well as on the Oprah Winfrey Network. Since then, Jennings has launched a number of initiatives and charities supporting transgender children.
You may also like: From Stonewall to today: 50+ years of modern LGBTQ+ history
Roy Rochlin // Getty Images
Seeing a significantly young and prominent trans person in the media is important for other trans children who may be going through a difficult time, and Jazz Jennings was able to offer that representation. Jennings was diagnosed with gender dysphoria at the early age of 5, and since transitioning, she has made multiple media appearances to speak about her challenges on shows like “20/20” as well as on the Oprah Winfrey Network. Since then, Jennings has launched a number of initiatives and charities supporting transgender children.
You may also like: From Stonewall to today: 50+ years of modern LGBTQ+ history
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Trans kids’ treatment can start younger, new guidelines say
Rich Fury/Getty Images for GLAAD
Born in 2001, Josie Totah is one of the youngest out transgender performers in the entertainment industry. After appearing in the Disney Channel show “Jessie,” Totah would go on to receive praise for her performance in the 2016 film “Other People.” It wasn’t until 2018 that she came out as a transgender woman. She’s since gone on to appear in projects like Peacock’s “Saved by the Bell” reboot as a cheerleader.
Rich Fury/Getty Images for GLAAD
Born in 2001, Josie Totah is one of the youngest out transgender performers in the entertainment industry. After appearing in the Disney Channel show “Jessie,” Totah would go on to receive praise for her performance in the 2016 film “Other People.” It wasn’t until 2018 that she came out as a transgender woman. She’s since gone on to appear in projects like Peacock’s “Saved by the Bell” reboot as a cheerleader.
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Trans kids’ treatment can start younger, new guidelines say
John Lamparski/WireImage // Getty Images
During his time at George Washington University, Kye Allums was part of the university’s women’s basketball team. While playing on the team, he came out as a trans man and later left the team. After graduating, Allums traveled the country and acted as a public speaker, sharing his own experiences and advice on how to handle bullying toward trans youth.
John Lamparski/WireImage // Getty Images
During his time at George Washington University, Kye Allums was part of the university’s women’s basketball team. While playing on the team, he came out as a trans man and later left the team. After graduating, Allums traveled the country and acted as a public speaker, sharing his own experiences and advice on how to handle bullying toward trans youth.
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Trans kids’ treatment can start younger, new guidelines say
Timothy Hiatt // Getty Images
Best known for writing and directing “The Matrix” films, Lana and Lilly Wachowski both came out as trans women in 2010 and 2016, respectively. “The Matrix” films have been pointed out for containing trans allegories, and the duo has continued to be inclusive in their works, especially with their Netflix series “Sense8.” Lana and Lilly also directed “Speed Racer,” “Cloud Atlas,” and “Jupiter Ascending.”
Timothy Hiatt // Getty Images
Best known for writing and directing “The Matrix” films, Lana and Lilly Wachowski both came out as trans women in 2010 and 2016, respectively. “The Matrix” films have been pointed out for containing trans allegories, and the duo has continued to be inclusive in their works, especially with their Netflix series “Sense8.” Lana and Lilly also directed “Speed Racer,” “Cloud Atlas,” and “Jupiter Ascending.”
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Trans kids’ treatment can start younger, new guidelines say
Burak Cingi/Redferns // Getty Images
Punk rock star Laura Jane Grace is the founder, lead singer, and guitarist of the band Against Me! She is one of the few openly transgender punk rock artists in the industry, coming out as a trans woman in the latter half of her band’s career in 2012. To reflect on her identity, Against Me! independently released a well-received concept album entitled “Transgender Dysphoria Blues” in 2014.
Burak Cingi/Redferns // Getty Images
Punk rock star Laura Jane Grace is the founder, lead singer, and guitarist of the band Against Me! She is one of the few openly transgender punk rock artists in the industry, coming out as a trans woman in the latter half of her band’s career in 2012. To reflect on her identity, Against Me! independently released a well-received concept album entitled “Transgender Dysphoria Blues” in 2014.
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Trans kids’ treatment can start younger, new guidelines say
Sarah Morris // Getty Images
Quite possibly the most famous trans celebrity is actress and activist Laverne Cox, who is primarily known for her role in the Netflix series “Orange Is the New Black.” Cox has the distinction of being the first transgender performer nominated for an Emmy in an acting category. She went on to be the first transgender actress with a series regular role on a broadcast network for her work on CBS’ “Doubt.” As an activist, Cox is credited with having a large role in the national discussion about transgender people in the United States.
You may also like: The best streaming services for football in 2021
Sarah Morris // Getty Images
Quite possibly the most famous trans celebrity is actress and activist Laverne Cox, who is primarily known for her role in the Netflix series “Orange Is the New Black.” Cox has the distinction of being the first transgender performer nominated for an Emmy in an acting category. She went on to be the first transgender actress with a series regular role on a broadcast network for her work on CBS’ “Doubt.” As an activist, Cox is credited with having a large role in the national discussion about transgender people in the United States.
You may also like: The best streaming services for football in 2021
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Trans kids’ treatment can start younger, new guidelines say
Charles Rogers // Wikimedia Commons
As a computer scientist and engineer, Lynn Conway was fired from her job in 1968 when she revealed her intention to transition to a woman. Still, her work has been credited for a number of technological and computer innovations, specifically with microchip design. Near retirement, Conway became a trans rights activist, specifically concerning employees in the tech industry.
Charles Rogers // Wikimedia Commons
As a computer scientist and engineer, Lynn Conway was fired from her job in 1968 when she revealed her intention to transition to a woman. Still, her work has been credited for a number of technological and computer innovations, specifically with microchip design. Near retirement, Conway became a trans rights activist, specifically concerning employees in the tech industry.
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Trans kids’ treatment can start younger, new guidelines say
Rachel Murray/Getty Images for MAKERS
Best known for her role in FX’s “Pose,” Michaela Jaé Rodriguez is the lead actress in what is the largest transgender and queer cast in a television show to date. In 2021, Rodriguez became the first transgender woman to take home the Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series. The following year, Rodriguez made another meaningful leap for trans representation in the entertainment industry by claiming the Best Actress trophy at the Golden Globe Awards, making her the first trans actress to win the honor in the history of the awards.
Rachel Murray/Getty Images for MAKERS
Best known for her role in FX’s “Pose,” Michaela Jaé Rodriguez is the lead actress in what is the largest transgender and queer cast in a television show to date. In 2021, Rodriguez became the first transgender woman to take home the Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series. The following year, Rodriguez made another meaningful leap for trans representation in the entertainment industry by claiming the Best Actress trophy at the Golden Globe Awards, making her the first trans actress to win the honor in the history of the awards.
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Trans kids’ treatment can start younger, new guidelines say
Left at London
Better known by the stage name Left at London, Nat Puff is a singer-songwriter and internet personality. She is best known for her viral Vines and her parodies of musicians and comedians, while also being an accomplished musician in her own right, with her “Transgender Street Legend” albums. Since her social media presence has grown, she frequently shares fundraising campaigns for a number of struggling transgender individuals.
Left at London
Better known by the stage name Left at London, Nat Puff is a singer-songwriter and internet personality. She is best known for her viral Vines and her parodies of musicians and comedians, while also being an accomplished musician in her own right, with her “Transgender Street Legend” albums. Since her social media presence has grown, she frequently shares fundraising campaigns for a number of struggling transgender individuals.
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Trans kids’ treatment can start younger, new guidelines say
Natalie Wynn Parrott // Wikimedia Commons
In response to the increasing number of right-wing video essays on YouTube, Natalie Wynn, best known by her online name ContraPoints, began producing elaborate counterargument video essays on the platform. Her videos are known for their detail in terms of both her nuanced arguments and her intricate production and costume design. She remains one of the most-followed leftist YouTubers, alongside Hbomberguy and Philosophy Tube, both of whom have campaigned for trans equality.
Natalie Wynn Parrott // Wikimedia Commons
In response to the increasing number of right-wing video essays on YouTube, Natalie Wynn, best known by her online name ContraPoints, began producing elaborate counterargument video essays on the platform. Her videos are known for their detail in terms of both her nuanced arguments and her intricate production and costume design. She remains one of the most-followed leftist YouTubers, alongside Hbomberguy and Philosophy Tube, both of whom have campaigned for trans equality.
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Trans kids’ treatment can start younger, new guidelines say
Dave Kotinsky/Getty Images for Shorty Awards
Popularly known as NikkieTutorials online, Nikkie de Jager is an online influencer and makeup artist with over one billion views on YouTube. She has received accolades from Forbes and the Teen Choice Awards for her work, and she came out as transgender early in 2020. Later that same year, she had the distinction of serving as the online host of “Eurovision: Europe Shine a Light,” which replaced the traditional Eurovision Song Contest due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
You may also like: Celebrities who married people who are not famous
Dave Kotinsky/Getty Images for Shorty Awards
Popularly known as NikkieTutorials online, Nikkie de Jager is an online influencer and makeup artist with over one billion views on YouTube. She has received accolades from Forbes and the Teen Choice Awards for her work, and she came out as transgender early in 2020. Later that same year, she had the distinction of serving as the online host of “Eurovision: Europe Shine a Light,” which replaced the traditional Eurovision Song Contest due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
You may also like: Celebrities who married people who are not famous
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Here’s how much legislation in each state restricts or protects trans youth
dariatorchukova // Shutterstock
Superficially, Americans and their legislators accept and understand LGBTQ+ individuals more now than even a decade ago. The Supreme Court's 2015 decision to legalize same-gender marriage stands as of the most tangible and significant wins for LGBTQ+ rights—yet the 2015 ruling only directly protected cisgender lesbian, gay, and bisexual individuals.
At least 19 states in 2016 considered bathroom bills, legislation that would force every person to use the gendered restroom matching the gender listed on their birth certificate. North Carolina passed this legislation, igniting conversations across the country and empowering lawmakers to draft similar bills in other states. But sister bills struggled to pass, and even North Carolina has since repealed its bathroom bill.
Several congressional representatives have turned to gender legislation to target a new group: transgender youth.
Stacker took a look at state-by-state data on sexual orientation and gender identity policies that affect transgender youth from the Transgender Law Center.
All 50 states and Washington D.C. were then ranked by their total “policy tallies” (the number of laws and policies driving equality for LGBTQ+ people), with #51 being the most restrictive state and #1 being the most protective state of trans youth. Negative tallies mean more discrimination laws exist than protection laws.
TLC's policy tally accounts only for passed legislation and does not take into account activism efforts, attitudes, and feelings expressed by people in the state, nor implementations of these laws. The core categories TLC considered revolve around relationships and parental recognition, nondiscrimination, religious exemptions, LGBTQ+ youth, health care, criminal justice, and identity documents.
TLC's findings capture how trans youth remain protected or vulnerable by statutory law, but legislation is elastic and lawmakers introduce new bills constantly. One category of these rankings only capture laws pertaining to sexuality since significant overlap exists within the queer community and within the legislation. Many lesbian, gay, or bisexual individuals also identify as transgender, nonbinary, or gender nonconforming, meaning LGBTQ+ individuals can identify with more than one queer identity.
Since 2020, anti-trans youth legislation claiming to protect children popped up more frequently in state legislatures, entering the more mainstream lexicon in 2021. During the first three months of 2022, lawmakers filed about 240 anti-LGBTQ+ laws—most of which targeted trans people.
Tennessee, the top state for anti-trans youth legislation, in 2017 signed a bill into law preventing trans children from receiving gender-affirming care. It was the fifth anti-trans law to pass in the state. Bills like these claim to protect parents and children, yet lawmakers in Tennessee are also considering a bill that would establish common-law marriages in the state between “one man and one woman” while eliminating age restrictions for marriage.
While anti-trans youth legislation outnumbers legislation to protect trans youth, several states have enacted or are considering laws intended to protect trans children. California has gone so far as to introduce a bill to accept families escaping anti-trans youth legislation. Colorado—formerly known as the “Hate State” for its history of passing anti-LGBTQ+ legislation throughout the ’90s—passed legislation banning conversion therapy, prohibiting bullying based on LGBTQ+ identities, and ending discrimination against LGBTQ+ families adopting children. Hawaii passed legislation in March that would require health insurance companies to pay for gender-affirming care—but not until 2060.
You may also like: A history of LGBTQ+ representation in film
dariatorchukova // Shutterstock
Superficially, Americans and their legislators accept and understand LGBTQ+ individuals more now than even a decade ago. The Supreme Court's 2015 decision to legalize same-gender marriage stands as of the most tangible and significant wins for LGBTQ+ rights—yet the 2015 ruling only directly protected cisgender lesbian, gay, and bisexual individuals.
At least 19 states in 2016 considered bathroom bills, legislation that would force every person to use the gendered restroom matching the gender listed on their birth certificate. North Carolina passed this legislation, igniting conversations across the country and empowering lawmakers to draft similar bills in other states. But sister bills struggled to pass, and even North Carolina has since repealed its bathroom bill.
Several congressional representatives have turned to gender legislation to target a new group: transgender youth.
Stacker took a look at state-by-state data on sexual orientation and gender identity policies that affect transgender youth from the Transgender Law Center.
All 50 states and Washington D.C. were then ranked by their total “policy tallies” (the number of laws and policies driving equality for LGBTQ+ people), with #51 being the most restrictive state and #1 being the most protective state of trans youth. Negative tallies mean more discrimination laws exist than protection laws.
TLC's policy tally accounts only for passed legislation and does not take into account activism efforts, attitudes, and feelings expressed by people in the state, nor implementations of these laws. The core categories TLC considered revolve around relationships and parental recognition, nondiscrimination, religious exemptions, LGBTQ+ youth, health care, criminal justice, and identity documents.
TLC's findings capture how trans youth remain protected or vulnerable by statutory law, but legislation is elastic and lawmakers introduce new bills constantly. One category of these rankings only capture laws pertaining to sexuality since significant overlap exists within the queer community and within the legislation. Many lesbian, gay, or bisexual individuals also identify as transgender, nonbinary, or gender nonconforming, meaning LGBTQ+ individuals can identify with more than one queer identity.
Since 2020, anti-trans youth legislation claiming to protect children popped up more frequently in state legislatures, entering the more mainstream lexicon in 2021. During the first three months of 2022, lawmakers filed about 240 anti-LGBTQ+ laws—most of which targeted trans people.
Tennessee, the top state for anti-trans youth legislation, in 2017 signed a bill into law preventing trans children from receiving gender-affirming care. It was the fifth anti-trans law to pass in the state. Bills like these claim to protect parents and children, yet lawmakers in Tennessee are also considering a bill that would establish common-law marriages in the state between “one man and one woman” while eliminating age restrictions for marriage.
While anti-trans youth legislation outnumbers legislation to protect trans youth, several states have enacted or are considering laws intended to protect trans children. California has gone so far as to introduce a bill to accept families escaping anti-trans youth legislation. Colorado—formerly known as the “Hate State” for its history of passing anti-LGBTQ+ legislation throughout the ’90s—passed legislation banning conversion therapy, prohibiting bullying based on LGBTQ+ identities, and ending discrimination against LGBTQ+ families adopting children. Hawaii passed legislation in March that would require health insurance companies to pay for gender-affirming care—but not until 2060.
You may also like: A history of LGBTQ+ representation in film
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Here’s how much legislation in each state restricts or protects trans youth
Mihai_Andritoiu // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: -6
- Gender identity policy tally: -5.75
- Sexual orientation policy tally: -0.25
Mihai_Andritoiu // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: -6
- Gender identity policy tally: -5.75
- Sexual orientation policy tally: -0.25
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Here’s how much legislation in each state restricts or protects trans youth
W. Scott McGill // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: -5.5
- Gender identity policy tally: -5
- Sexual orientation policy tally: -0.5
W. Scott McGill // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: -5.5
- Gender identity policy tally: -5
- Sexual orientation policy tally: -0.5
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Here’s how much legislation in each state restricts or protects trans youth
Joseph Sohm // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: -4.5
- Gender identity policy tally: -4
- Sexual orientation policy tally: -0.5
Joseph Sohm // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: -4.5
- Gender identity policy tally: -4
- Sexual orientation policy tally: -0.5
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Here’s how much legislation in each state restricts or protects trans youth
Kristi Blokhin // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: -4
- Gender identity policy tally: -3.5
- Sexual orientation policy tally: -0.5
Kristi Blokhin // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: -4
- Gender identity policy tally: -3.5
- Sexual orientation policy tally: -0.5
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Here’s how much legislation in each state restricts or protects trans youth
Sean Pavone // Shutterstock
Sean Pavone // Shutterstock
-
-
Here’s how much legislation in each state restricts or protects trans youth
Joseph Sohm // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: -3
- Gender identity policy tally: -5
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 2
Joseph Sohm // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: -3
- Gender identity policy tally: -5
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 2
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Here’s how much legislation in each state restricts or protects trans youth
Nagel Photography // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: -2.5
- Gender identity policy tally: -3.5
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 1
Nagel Photography // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: -2.5
- Gender identity policy tally: -3.5
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 1
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-
Here’s how much legislation in each state restricts or protects trans youth
f11photo // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: -0.5
- Gender identity policy tally: -3
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 2.5
f11photo // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: -0.5
- Gender identity policy tally: -3
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 2.5
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Here’s how much legislation in each state restricts or protects trans youth
Jon Bilous // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: -0.5
- Gender identity policy tally: -1.5
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 1
Jon Bilous // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: -0.5
- Gender identity policy tally: -1.5
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 1
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-
Here’s how much legislation in each state restricts or protects trans youth
CrackerClips Stock Media // Shutterstock
CrackerClips Stock Media // Shutterstock
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Here’s how much legislation in each state restricts or protects trans youth
Nagel Photography // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 0.75
- Gender identity policy tally: -2.75
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 3.5
Nagel Photography // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 0.75
- Gender identity policy tally: -2.75
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 3.5
-
-
Here’s how much legislation in each state restricts or protects trans youth
Nagel Photography // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 1.75
- Gender identity policy tally: -0.75
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 2.5
Nagel Photography // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 1.75
- Gender identity policy tally: -0.75
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 2.5
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Here’s how much legislation in each state restricts or protects trans youth
EQRoy // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 2.25
- Gender identity policy tally: -3.5
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 5.75
EQRoy // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 2.25
- Gender identity policy tally: -3.5
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 5.75
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Here’s how much legislation in each state restricts or protects trans youth
Nagel Photography // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 3.75
- Gender identity policy tally: -0.5
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 4.25
Nagel Photography // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 3.75
- Gender identity policy tally: -0.5
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 4.25
-
Here’s how much legislation in each state restricts or protects trans youth
Mihai_Andritoiu // Shutterstock
Mihai_Andritoiu // Shutterstock
-
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Here’s how much legislation in each state restricts or protects trans youth
Jacob Boomsma // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 4
- Gender identity policy tally: -1.25
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 5.25
Jacob Boomsma // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 4
- Gender identity policy tally: -1.25
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 5.25
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Here’s how much legislation in each state restricts or protects trans youth
Sean Pavone // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 4
- Gender identity policy tally: -1.5
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 5.5
Sean Pavone // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 4
- Gender identity policy tally: -1.5
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 5.5
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Here’s how much legislation in each state restricts or protects trans youth
vmfreire // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 5.75
- Gender identity policy tally: 2
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 3.75
vmfreire // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 5.75
- Gender identity policy tally: 2
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 3.75
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Here’s how much legislation in each state restricts or protects trans youth
Zack Frank // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 5.75
- Gender identity policy tally: 1
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 4.75
Zack Frank // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 5.75
- Gender identity policy tally: 1
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 4.75
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-
Here’s how much legislation in each state restricts or protects trans youth
Sean Pavone // Shutterstock
Sean Pavone // Shutterstock
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Here’s how much legislation in each state restricts or protects trans youth
Nagel Photography // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 7.75
- Gender identity policy tally: 3
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 4.75
Nagel Photography // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 7.75
- Gender identity policy tally: 3
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 4.75
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-
Here’s how much legislation in each state restricts or protects trans youth
Mihai_Andritoiu // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 9.75
- Gender identity policy tally: 3.75
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 6
Mihai_Andritoiu // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 9.75
- Gender identity policy tally: 3.75
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 6
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Here’s how much legislation in each state restricts or protects trans youth
Susan M Hall // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 10.25
- Gender identity policy tally: 3
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 7.25
Susan M Hall // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 10.25
- Gender identity policy tally: 3
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 7.25
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-
Here’s how much legislation in each state restricts or protects trans youth
Joseph Sohm // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 11.75
- Gender identity policy tally: 4.25
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 7.5
Joseph Sohm // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 11.75
- Gender identity policy tally: 4.25
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 7.5
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Here’s how much legislation in each state restricts or protects trans youth
InnovativeImages // Shutterstock
InnovativeImages // Shutterstock
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Here’s how much legislation in each state restricts or protects trans youth
Real Window Creative // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 15.5
- Gender identity policy tally: 9.25
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 6.25
Real Window Creative // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 15.5
- Gender identity policy tally: 9.25
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 6.25
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Here’s how much legislation in each state restricts or protects trans youth
Grindstone Media Group // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 17
- Gender identity policy tally: 6
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 11
Grindstone Media Group // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 17
- Gender identity policy tally: 6
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 11
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Here’s how much legislation in each state restricts or protects trans youth
Rob Pauley // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 17.75
- Gender identity policy tally: 9
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 8.75
Rob Pauley // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 17.75
- Gender identity policy tally: 9
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 8.75
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Here’s how much legislation in each state restricts or protects trans youth
Suzanne Tucker // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 18
- Gender identity policy tally: 5.25
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 12.75
Suzanne Tucker // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 18
- Gender identity policy tally: 5.25
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 12.75
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Here’s how much legislation in each state restricts or protects trans youth
Nagel Photography // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 19
- Gender identity policy tally: 11.25
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 7.75
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Nagel Photography // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 19
- Gender identity policy tally: 11.25
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 7.75
You may also like: Oldest cities in America
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Here’s how much legislation in each state restricts or protects trans youth
Nagel Photography // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 25.25
- Gender identity policy tally: 12.75
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 12.5
Nagel Photography // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 25.25
- Gender identity policy tally: 12.75
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 12.5
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Here’s how much legislation in each state restricts or protects trans youth
Nagel Photography // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 26
- Gender identity policy tally: 14.5
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 11.5
Nagel Photography // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 26
- Gender identity policy tally: 14.5
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 11.5
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Here’s how much legislation in each state restricts or protects trans youth
Wangkun Jia // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 27.5
- Gender identity policy tally: 14
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 13.5
Wangkun Jia // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 27.5
- Gender identity policy tally: 14
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 13.5
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Here’s how much legislation in each state restricts or protects trans youth
Traveller70 // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 28
- Gender identity policy tally: 14.5
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 13.5
Traveller70 // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 28
- Gender identity policy tally: 14.5
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 13.5
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Here’s how much legislation in each state restricts or protects trans youth
Felix Lipov // Shutterstock
Felix Lipov // Shutterstock
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Here’s how much legislation in each state restricts or protects trans youth
Nagel Photography // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 31
- Gender identity policy tally: 16
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 15
Nagel Photography // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 31
- Gender identity policy tally: 16
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 15
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Here’s how much legislation in each state restricts or protects trans youth
Wangkun Jia // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 32.5
- Gender identity policy tally: 16
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 16.5
Wangkun Jia // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 32.5
- Gender identity policy tally: 16
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 16.5
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Here’s how much legislation in each state restricts or protects trans youth
Belikova Oksana // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 33.5
- Gender identity policy tally: 17.25
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 16.25
Belikova Oksana // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 33.5
- Gender identity policy tally: 17.25
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 16.25
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Here’s how much legislation in each state restricts or protects trans youth
Randy Runtsch // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 33.5
- Gender identity policy tally: 18.25
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 15.25
Randy Runtsch // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 33.5
- Gender identity policy tally: 18.25
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 15.25
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-
Here’s how much legislation in each state restricts or protects trans youth
Moab Republic // Shutterstock
Moab Republic // Shutterstock
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Here’s how much legislation in each state restricts or protects trans youth
Orhan Cam // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 36
- Gender identity policy tally: 19
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 17
Orhan Cam // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 36
- Gender identity policy tally: 19
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 17
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Here’s how much legislation in each state restricts or protects trans youth
Sean Pavone // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 36
- Gender identity policy tally: 18.5
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 17.5
Sean Pavone // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 36
- Gender identity policy tally: 18.5
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 17.5
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Here’s how much legislation in each state restricts or protects trans youth
James Curzio // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 36.5
- Gender identity policy tally: 19.5
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 17
James Curzio // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 36.5
- Gender identity policy tally: 19.5
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 17
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Here’s how much legislation in each state restricts or protects trans youth
Always Wanderlust / Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 36.75
- Gender identity policy tally: 20
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 16.75
Always Wanderlust / Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 36.75
- Gender identity policy tally: 20
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 16.75
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Here’s how much legislation in each state restricts or protects trans youth
Wangkun Jia // Shutterstock
Wangkun Jia // Shutterstock
-
-
Here’s how much legislation in each state restricts or protects trans youth
Nagel Photography // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 37
- Gender identity policy tally: 20
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 17
Nagel Photography // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 37
- Gender identity policy tally: 20
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 17
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Here’s how much legislation in each state restricts or protects trans youth
Sean Pavone // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 37.5
- Gender identity policy tally: 20
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 17.5
Sean Pavone // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 37.5
- Gender identity policy tally: 20
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 17.5
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-
Here’s how much legislation in each state restricts or protects trans youth
Jacob Boomsma // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 38
- Gender identity policy tally: 20.5
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 17.5
Jacob Boomsma // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 38
- Gender identity policy tally: 20.5
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 17.5
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Here’s how much legislation in each state restricts or protects trans youth
Wangkun Jia // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 39
- Gender identity policy tally: 20.5
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 18.5
Wangkun Jia // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 39
- Gender identity policy tally: 20.5
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 18.5
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-
Here’s how much legislation in each state restricts or protects trans youth
Sundry Photography // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 39.25
- Gender identity policy tally: 20.75
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 18.5
Sundry Photography // Shutterstock
- Overall tally: 39.25
- Gender identity policy tally: 20.75
- Sexual orientation policy tally: 18.5
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Here’s how much legislation in each state restricts or protects trans youth
Creative Family // Shutterstock
Creative Family // Shutterstock
They also are trying to frame the debate as protecting the rights of “biological” women, and the Kansas bill is called, “The Women’s Bill of Rights.”
In Kansas, Republican state Sen. Renee Erickson, the Senate health committee’s vice chair, asked it to sponsor the measure. A former college basketball player, she has also led the push to restrict transgender athletes. She said defining male and female in state law would not prevent anyone from “living how they choose to live.”
Jae Moyer, a Kansas City-area activist, has a driver’s license and birth certificate identifying them as male, although they identify as nonbinary. The Kansas measure feels designed to force them into “molds that I personally don’t fit into.”
“They want to make sure that they’re taking every avenue possible to just erase who I am as a person,” Moyer said.
