DALLAS COUNTY, Texas — The Dallas County Commissioners Court passed a resolution on Tuesday affirming the rights and protections of transgender people living in the county, and called upon the state to codify these protections.
District 1 Commissioner Theresa M. Daniel brought the resolution before the court.
"You all are aware that Dallas County and I know all the people who sit here strongly feel that discrimination in any place is wrong, and that is why I am presenting this resolution," Daniel said during the meeting.
The resolution states that the county remains committed to ensuring its constituents are free from any discrimination or harassment, as well as recognizing the contributions made by transgender people and affirming they are vital community members.
"Transgender people continue to face high levels of discrimination, stigma, and bias that often fuels violence and abuse against this community," the resolution reads. "Over 100 bills were filed in the 88th Texas Legislature against the transgender community, specifically health-related issues, despite the fact that gender-affirming healthcare has been proven to be evidence-based, medically necessary, and lifesaving."
Additionally, the resolution states that Dallas County calls upon the Texas State Legislature to codify protections for transgender people and to refrain from restricting their rights. It also calls upon U.S. Congress to pass the Equality Act, prohibiting discrimination based on sex, sexual orientation or gender identity with respect to housing, employment and other settings.
The resolution was originally authored by Saya Clarke, a transgender activist and organizer with the North Texas chapter of the Democratic Socialists of America.
"I'm here today because I believe with all my heart and soul that a better, more just world is possible," Clarke said during the meeting. "Not just for trans people, but for all marginalized people and for the working class itself. That world is possible but only if good and courageous people with love in their hearts come together and decide that enough is enough."
