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PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Ro Peña, Co-founder and Director of Programming at Transformative Schools

2:15:42

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Ro Peña, a non-binary educator and co-founder of Transformative Schools, testified about the need for increased funding for trans-led organizations. They emphasized the importance of investing in organizations with lived trans experiences to address barriers faced by the transgender community effectively.

Advocated for increasing the trans equity fund to at least $10 million
Highlighted the unique insights and understanding that trans-led organizations bring to addressing issues like healthcare access and discrimination
Stressed the importance of representation and inclusivity in services provided by trans-led organizations

Ro Peña

2:15:42

Hello members of the committee.

2:15:43

My name is Ropena.

2:15:44

I'm a non binary educator and co founder and director of programming at Transformative Schools along with Helena, where everyday we facilitate a free trans centered after school program for youth who are seeking safety and community with other youth just like themselves.

2:15:58

However, we can't do this work can't do this work without a roof over our heads, and the necessary funding to support our educators among so many other financial needs.

2:16:08

I'm here today to address the allocation of funding for organizations that support our larger transgender community.

2:16:13

Trans organizations have a profound insight into the barriers that trans people encounter from health care access to discrimination in employment and education.

2:16:22

When we invest in trans organization, we empower those who have lived trans experiences and are committed to fostering change for their larger community.

2:16:32

While most LGB organizations have valuable contributions, they often lack the same level of understanding and care.

2:16:39

By investing in us and directing funding towards trans led initiatives, we ensure that the voices of trans individuals are prioritized, and we move towards dismantling the systemic barriers that have marginalized transgender individuals for far too long.

2:16:54

Sure.

2:16:54

This is about financial support, but it is also about recognizing the importance of representation and inclusivity in the services provided by trans led organizations.

2:17:04

We need trans equity fund to be increased to at least 10,000,000.

2:17:08

This is a critical opportunity for this council to make meaningful action and demonstrate a commitment to equity and inclusion for transgender people.

2:17:16

TFS passionately believes wholeheartedly in the urgent need for trans liberation.

2:17:21

It is not just a matter of support, it is a call to action.

2:17:25

It is advocate for the direct distribution of resources and funding to trans led organizations.

2:17:31

Our organizations are lifelines offering hope in the face of adversity.

2:17:36

We urge this committee to consider the profound impact that funding trans led organizations can have on our city.

2:17:43

Together, we can create a more inclusive and equitable community where we where every individual can thrive.

2:17:49

I will submit my full testimony for the record.

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Testimony by Alaina Daniels, Co-founder and Executive Director of Transformative Schools

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Testimony by Sharon Brown against LGBTQIA+ rights and services