PRESS RELEASE: Jackson Hole Pride Responds to Executive Order & State Legislation Targeting LGBTQIA+ Rights: A Call for Solidarity and Action
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 21, 2025*
Organization: Jackson Hole Pride
Contact: Cheyenne Syvertson
Email: JacksonHolePride@gmail.com
Website: www.JHPride.com
Jackson Hole Pride Responds to Executive Order & State Legislation Targeting LGBTQIA+ Rights: A Call for Solidarity and Action
Teton County, WY — Jackson Hole Pride stands united with the LGBTQIA+ community and its allies, remaining unwavering in its commitment to challenge hate and discrimination wherever it surfaces—even when it emanates from the highest office in the land. In response to the recent executive order signed by President Trump regarding gender identity, Jackson Hole Pride is collaborating with partner organizations, including the Wyoming ACLU, to fully understand and respond to the potential impact on Wyoming’s LGBTQIA+ community, with particular attention to the challenges faced by gender-diverse individuals.
What Does This Executive Order Mean Right Now?
It is important to clarify that while the Executive Order is a directive to federal agencies, it is not a new law. Its immediate impact will not be felt in changes to laws and policies at the national level. However, in Wyoming, House Bill 32 is currently advancing through the state legislature with language that mirrors the harmful attacks on gender-diverse communities seen in the Executive Order.
Jackson Hole Pride is closely monitoring the progress of this bill and, although we are concerned about its potential passage, we are committed to supporting legal actions by the ACLU to challenge its harmful effects. Our community’s resilience remains strong, and we are determined to protect the civil and human rights of gender-diverse individuals.
Defending Local Protections
Thanks to the advocacy and activism of LGBTQIA+ leaders, the Town of Jackson has a local non-discrimination ordinance that provides protections for sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression. As new federal and state laws are introduced, Jackson Hole Pride will work with local lawmakers to assess any impact on this ordinance and explore possible legal avenues to defend these critical protections.
The Power of Language and Solidarity
"Even though the Executive Order and proposed policy changes are not law, we have already seen their harmful effects within our community," says Cheyenne Syvertson, Chair of Jackson Hole Pride. "The rhetoric coming from elected officials emboldens hateful and discriminatory behavior, normalizing abuse toward LGBTQIA+ individuals. It is essential that we all take a stand—whether that means speaking up when we witness injustice, learning bystander intervention techniques, attending protests, or engaging in difficult conversations with friends and family about what it truly means to stand in solidarity with the LGBTQIA+ community during these challenging times."
Supporting Our Community in Challenging Times
Jackson Hole Pride continues to prioritize the well-being and unity of LGBTQIA+ individuals. Our mission remains clear: to foster community connection, provide advocacy, and ensure access to vital resources. In this time of uncertainty, we are dedicated to hosting events that bring our community together, offering a space for mutual support and understanding.
As changes to federal and state policies unfold, Jackson Hole Pride will continue to provide timely, accurate information about any developments that may directly impact the LGBTQIA+ community. For up-to-date information on events, calls to action, and resources, please visit www.JHPride.com or follow us on Instagram at @jacksonholepride.
A Call for Collective Action
We are deeply grateful for the strength and solidarity of our local community in Jackson Hole. Many elected officials at the local and state levels have fought tirelessly to secure our rights, and continue to advocate for us today in the face of rising opposition. As threats to LGBTQIA+ rights intensify both nationally and within Wyoming, it is crucial that we amplify the lived experiences of LGBTQIA+ individuals, stay informed through trusted sources, and remain vigilant against any erosion of our rights. Together, we can ensure that our health, livelihoods, and access to education remain protected.
For questions and comments, please contact Jackson Hole Pride at: JacksonHolePride@gmail.com
*This press release was edited on Jan 25, 2025 for personal privacy concerns.
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