Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen recently signed an executive order that provides a more defined definition of an individual’s sex. While Pillen believes this is a step forward for women’s rights, critics argue that it is an attack on the transgender community. According to the AP, the order directs schools and state agencies to classify individuals as “female” or “male” based on their assigned sex at birth. “Female” is defined as someone with a reproductive system designed to produce ova, while “male” refers to someone with a reproductive system designed to fertilize ova.
It is important to note that the term “transgender” is not included in the order, and the definitions provided are primarily intended for data collection purposes. However, critics argue that the order ultimately aims to exclude transgender individuals from certain spaces, as Pillen’s statements indicate. Pillen states that “men do not belong in women’s-only spaces” and emphasizes the need to protect children and women’s athletics by providing single-sex spaces for sports, bathrooms, and changing rooms.
Pillen’s directive also associates terms like “woman,” “girl,” and “mother” exclusively with females, while terms like “man,” “boy,” and “father” are associated with males. The Lincoln Journal Star notes that Pillen’s order, referred to as the “Women’s Bill of Rights,” was issued shortly after a meeting with Riley Gaines, a former University of Kentucky swimmer who has been vocal in opposition to transgender athletes. Gov. Kevin Stitt of Oklahoma also recently signed a similar directive.
There has been significant backlash from Nebraska lawmakers regarding Pillen’s move. Independent Senator Megan Hunt describes it as “offensive and ridiculous” and challenges Pillen to say these things to her face. Democratic Senator Jen Day also expresses disappointment, stating that the directive serves to divide people and is highly infuriating. Pillen’s order will expire if other legislation regarding transgender athletes is passed in Nebraska. A bill with restrictions on such athletes stalled in the state Legislature earlier this year but is expected to be debated again in 2024.
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