Desert Daily Guide. March 1.

In
The
News...or not
The Human Rights Campaign, a prominent
LGBTQ+ civil rights organization, is highlighting
the significant increase in anti-LGBTQ+ bills
being pushed by extremist lawmakers in state
legislatures nationwide. This legislative assault,
supported by groups labeled as hate groups by
the Southern Poverty Law Center, is creating a
hostile environment for LGBTQ+ individuals and
threatens their rights and existence.
In 2023, a record-breaking 520 anti-LGBTQ+
bills were introduced in state legislatures, with over
220 targeting transgender and non-binary people.
A total of 70 anti-LGBTQ+ laws were enacted,
including bans on gender affirming care for
transgender youth and laws allowing misgendering
of transgender students. This year saw more anti-
LGBTQ+ bills than in the previous five years,
with a rise in LGBTQ Erasure bills stripping legal
protections and rights for LGBTQ+ individuals.
Notable trends include increased efforts to prevent
trans youth from accessing necessary healthcare,
banning transgender students from school sports,
and introducing “bathroom bills.” States like
Florida, North Dakota, Tennessee, and Texas were
particularly active in advancing anti-LGBTQ+
laws.
If you are the victim of a hate crime, it’s important
to take several steps to ensure your safety and wellbeing:
Safety First: If you are in immediate danger, call
911 or your local emergency number.
Seek Medical Attention: If you are injured, seek
medical attention as soon as possible. Your health
and safety are the top priorities.
Report the Crime: Report the hate crime to
the police. Provide as much detail as possible
about the incident, including descriptions of the
perpetrator(s) and any witnesses.
Document Evidence: If you can do so safely,
take photos of any injuries or damage caused
by the hate crime. Keep any relevant physical
evidence, such as clothing or objects, in a safe
place.
Seek Support: Reach out to friends, family, or a
support group for emotional support. You may
also consider contacting a local victim advocacy
organization for assistance.
Know Your Rights: Familiarize yourself with
your rights as a victim of a hate crime. Many
jurisdictions have specific laws and resources for
hate crime victims.
Follow Up: Stay in touch with law enforcement
and follow their instructions. Keep records of any
communications related to the incident.
Consider Legal Options: Depending on the
circumstances, you may want to consult with a
lawyer to explore your legal options.
Remember, you are not alone. There are resources
and support available to help you through this
difficult time.
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