At a time when the federal government is rolling back rights and recognition for transgender Americans, Colorado is moving to expand its protections in a number of areas, including medical care, harassment, death certificates and more. Democratic state lawmakers and proponents say this is to further codify certain rights for the state’s transgender community. But opponents, including GOP members of the state legislature, argue the proposals go beyond equality.
CPR’s Bente Birkeland and KUNC’s Lucas Brady Woods look at the various legislative efforts before Colorado lawmakers this session, how the debates are shaping up at the statehouse and what this could mean for trans Coloradans, and the state’s political situation, against the backdrop of anti-trans rhetoric and actions increasing on the federal level.
And if you've ever wanted to see the Purplish team in action, here is your chance: we're hosting a live taping of the show, the evening of Tuesday, April 22, in Denver. Find all the details, and get your tickets, here.
Purplish is produced by CPR News and the Capitol News Alliance, a collaboration between KUNC News, Colorado Public Radio, Rocky Mountain PBS, and The Colorado Sun, and shared with Rocky Mountain Community Radio and other news organizations across the state. Funding for the Alliance is provided in part by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.
Purplish’s producer is Stephanie Wolf. This episode was edited by Megan Verlee and sound designed and engineered by Shane Rumsey. Our theme music is by Brad Turner.
