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Transgender Ohioans Speak Out After Being Challenged in Attempt to Run for Office

HeadlineJan 11, 2024

Two transgender women vying for seats in the Ohio House of Representatives have been challenged for not disclosing their birth names on nominating petitions. Both women said they were unaware of the rule but that they would have complied despite the harmful nature of the requirement. One of the women, Arienne Childrey, said of the rule, “Having to use your deadname is horrible. It is an attack on who we are.” Vanessa Joy, who is appealing the decision last week to disqualify her, also warned that transgender people should not be forced to share their dead names due to safety concerns.

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