CLEVELAND — The LGBT Community Center of Greater Cleveland is reacting to the news that Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine signed a bill into law that bans transgender students from using bathrooms that fit their gender identities.
Here's the full statement as issued Wednesday afternoon:
The LGBT Community Center of Greater Cleveland is deeply disappointed and concerned by Governor DeWine’s decision to sign Ohio Senate Bill 104 into law.
This legislation undermines the dignity and safety of transgender Ohioans, sending a message that their identities are not valid or deserving of respect. It prioritizes fear-based rhetoric over facts, as there is no evidence to suggest that inclusive bathroom policies pose any threat to public safety. Instead, this law will further marginalize and harm an already vulnerable community.
We stand with our transgender community members, affirming their right to live authentically and safely. The Center remains committed to providing support, advocacy, and resources to those impacted by this discriminatory policy. We call on Ohio’s lawmakers to reconsider legislation that divides rather than unites, and to work toward creating a state where everyone, regardless of gender identity, can thrive.
To our transgender community: You are seen, valued, and supported. We will continue to fight alongside you for a future where your rights are fully recognized and respected.
WHAT THE LAW SAYS
The new law, which impacts students from kindergarten through college in Ohio, states the following:
"A school shall designate each student restroom, lock room, changing room, or shower room that is accessible by multiple students at the same time, whether located in a school building or located in a facility used by the school for a school-sponsored activity, for the exclusive use by students of the male biological sex only or by students of the female biological sex only."
It also says "no school shall construct, establish, or maintain a multi-occupancy facility that is designated as nongendered or multigendered, or open to all genders."
You can read the full bill in the document below.