Help Andrea Flee the State

Who Am I?

Hello, my name is Andrea Robinson. I am an educator who happens to be trans in the state of Oklahoma. Recently, this state that I have called home for most of my life has become hostile towards both my profession and personhood. For this reason, I have made the decision to leave Oklahoma for Colorado.

What’s Going On?

The passage of legislation in recent years that restricts discussion of topics related to race, gender, and sexuality (HB 1775) as well as legislation that dictates what restrooms trans children can use in schools (SB 615) and which sports teams they may join (SB 2) have made teaching while trans increasingly perilous. In 2023 alone, three anti-trans bills (SB 129, SB 250, HB 2186) have been introduced. SB 250, in particular, would effectively end gender-affirming care for all ages in the state of Oklahoma, as the bill seeks to withhold federal and state funds from any facility or practicioner that provides gender-affirming care. No hospital or clinic can operate without these funds. Were this bill to pass, I would lose access to critical health care. Even if none of these bills pass, their mere introduction adds to the negative rhetoric surrounding trans issues today. Anti-trans violence is on the rise, and this happens to coincide with the landslide of anti-trans legislation introduced across America. Hostile rhetoric is translating into hostile actions.

Why Colorado?

Colorado has enshrined in law protections for trans people (HB 21-1108), has required insurance companies regulated by the state to cover gender-affirming care and procedures (Colorado Regulation 4-2-62), and requires the teaching of the history and contributions of minority groups (HB 19-1192). I have worked to allow students to see themselves in literature, for students to feel safe being themselves in my classroom, and to promote equity ever since I first decided to return to school to become a teacher. I can no longer accomplish these goals in the state of Oklahoma and attempting to do so has become more detrimental to my safety and well being as this state continues to target marginalized communities for political gain.

Where Will the Money Go?

The money will primarily be used to cover moving costs, deposits, and fees associated with moving, securing a new place to live, and any legal paperwork that may be necessary for work. Were this campaign to become wildly successful, I would put additional funds towards furthering my transition, starting with laser hair removal.

Thank you for reading, and thank you for your consideration.