Get Your VOTE On!

Known for marriage equality, reproductive rights, and environmental advocacy, Vermont has long been a leader in advancing social justice and human rights, setting a high bar for progressive policies that protect marginalized communities. However, even in a state with such a strong history and an eye toward progress, the political landscape can change swiftly. 

This election is too close to hang back. And, yeah, progressive Vermont is likely to go for the Democratic candidate, but even so, what occurred on and since January 6, 2021 tells us that the fight for liberation is constant and gains are tenuous.

Now, more than ever, voting in local, state, and federal elections is essential for ensuring that queer and trans youth are protected at every level of government. By showing up at the polls, we can ensure that our state's leadership remains committed to protecting and uplifting marginalized communities. 

The Current Political Landscape and Attacks on Queer and Trans Rights

Across the country, 2023 and 2024 have seen an alarming surge in anti-LGBTQ+ legislation, with over 500 bills introduced in state legislatures. These bills overwhelmingly target transgender youth, aiming to restrict access to gender-affirming healthcare, participation in sports, and the ability to use public facilities that align with their gender identity. 

Vermont, though progressive, is not immune to these trends. Legislative efforts such as House Bill H.183, which would allow healthcare providers to restrict LGBTQ+ patients' access to gender-affirming care, and House Bill H.513, aimed at barring transgender athletes from participating in sports aligned with their gender identity, highlight the ongoing need for vigilance—even in states with robust LGBTQ+ protections.

Examples of harmful and hateful legislation can be seen nationwide:

• Healthcare bans: Twenty-six states have gender-affirming healthcare bans and 39.4% of transgender youth live in states that have passed bans on gender-affirming care. (Williams Institute)

• Bathroom and sports bans: Ten states have access to bathroom bans, leaving 38,600 trans youth living in states with bathroom bans. There are 78,400 trans youth living in states where legislation is pending. (Williams Institute & Human Rights Campaign)

• "Don't Say Gay" laws: Florida's Parental Rights in Education Act, which restricts discussions of LGBTQ+ topics in schools, has had a chilling effect on the visibility and support of queer and trans students. Forty-two have been introduced in 26 states, according to Education Weekly. 

These attacks on queer and trans rights are not just isolated incidents but part of a broader, coordinated effort to erode the hard-fought gains of the LGBTQ+ community. In this political environment, voting becomes a powerful tool for protecting against these harmful policies and ensuring that Vermont continues to be a beacon of inclusion and liberation.

Court Cases and Legal Battles: The Fight for Rights and Recognition

While legislation is a key battleground, the courts have also played a pivotal role in shaping the future of queer and trans rights. Landmark cases like Bostock v. Clayton County, which ruled that discrimination based on gender identity and sexual orientation is illegal under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, demonstrate the power of the judiciary. However, there are ongoing legal battles that threaten to dismantle these protections.

One of the most closely watched cases this year is U.S. v. Skrmetti, which challenges Tennessee's Senate Bill 1, a law that bans gender-affirming care for minors. This case is a critical moment for trans rights in the U.S. and could set a dangerous precedent if the Supreme Court upholds the law.

Despite positive rulings in cases like Doe v. Abbott, which temporarily halted investigations into families supporting their transgender children in Texas, the rollback of protections during the Trump administration highlighted the fragility of LGBTQ+ rights. We must remain engaged in both the legislative and judicial processes to ensure that hard-won rights are not stripped away.

Why Voting Matters and How It Can Make a Difference

Voting is an act of harm reduction, and it is one of the most important ways we can protect queer and trans youth. Decisions made by elected officials at every level—local, state, and federal—directly impact the rights and safety of LGBTQ+ individuals. School boards, for example, play a crucial role in shaping the inclusivity of educational environments, while state legislatures craft laws that can either affirm or strip away rights.

Voting also influences judicial appointments, from lower courts to the Supreme Court. These judges interpret and enforce laws that directly affect queer and trans rights, making each election a critical opportunity to shape the judiciary and ensure it reflects values of equity and justice.

Here’s what to do!

In a time when queer and trans rights face constant threats, it’s vital to show up for every election—national, state, and local. These votes determine the future of LGBTQ+ rights and the safety of our communities. Here’s how you can take action:

1. Educate Yourself on the Issues: Understand the key challenges facing queer and trans communities locally and nationally.

2. Research Candidates: Support those who are committed to protecting LGBTQ+ rights.

3. Engage in Advocacy: Join organizations fighting for queer and trans rights, and get involved in their work.

4. Mobilize Others: Encourage your network to vote and share information on the importance of local elections.

5. Vote: Make a plan to vote, and make sure your voice is heard in shaping a future where queer and trans individuals can thrive.

By engaging in the political process, we can build a safer world where LGBTQ+ youth can see possibilities for themselves and thrive.