HomeMy WebLinkAbout2 25 2025 HRCHuman Rights Commission
February 25, 2025
Regular Meeting – 5:30 PM
Emma J. Harvat Hall, City Hall
Agenda:
1.Call the Meeting to Order and Roll Call.
2.Reading of the Native American Land Acknowledgment.
3.Public Comment of Items not on the Agenda.
Commentators shall address the commission for no more than five minutes.
Commissioners shall not engage in discussion with the public concerning said
items.
4.Approval of the January 28, 2025, meeting minutes.
5.Update on Outreach and Engagement by the Police Department.
6.Correspondence.
7.Funding Request Follow Up: Iowa City Foreign Relations Council.
8.Funding Request: Film Scene.
9.Recommendation to the City Council for a resolution on All Are Welcome.
10.Human Rights Grant (March 1 – April 1).
11.Upcoming Save the Dates:
•Night of a 1000 Dinners (March 6)
•She Speaks (March 8)
•Youth Awards (May 21)
•Iowa City Juneteenth (June 20)
•Iowa City Pride (June 21)
•Human Rights Awards Breakfast (October 22).
12.Vote on Whether to Sign On to the Civil and Human Rights Commissioner's
Letter in Opposition to HSB242.
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13.Reports of Commissioners and Staff.
This item includes an opportunity for very brief updates from staff and
commissioners. Commissioners cannot engage in discussion on any
reports.
14.Next Meeting: March 25, 2025
15.Adjournment
Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to attend all City of Iowa City-
sponsored events. If you are a person with a disability who requires a reasonable
accommodation in order to participate in this meeting, please contact the Office
of Equity and Human Rights at 319-356-5022 or email humanrights@iowa-
city.org. Early requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time to meet
your access needs.
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Draft Minutes
Human Rights Commission
January 28, 2025
Emma J. Harvat Hall
Commissioners present: Doug Kollasch, Idriss Abdullahi, Emily Harkin, Kelsey Paul Shantz, Roger Lusala,
Elizabeth Shannon.
Commissioners on Zoom: Lubna Mohamed.
Commissioners absent: Mark Pries, Viana Qadoura.
Staff present: Tre Hall, Stefanie Bowers.
Recommendation to City Council: No.
Meeting called to order: 5:37 PM.
Native American Land Acknowledgement: Abdullahi read the Land Acknowledgement.
Approval of meeting minutes of November 26, 2024: Lusala moved, and Abdullahi seconded. Motion
passed 7-0.
Updates on Outreach and Engagement by the Police Department: Community Outreach Assistant, Tre Hall
updated the commission on the police department’s recent and upcoming community outreach efforts. On
Jan. 6th community outreach included reading to community members on the west side of Iowa City, giving
a squad tour and handing out stickers. A presentation on avoiding scams and fraud was given to groups at
Lensing on Jan. 15th and Featherstone on Jan. 21st. On MLK day Hall participated in the procession and
services that occurred at Mercer to commemorate the holiday. Upcoming events include squad tour and
reading at Regina School on Jan. 30th. They will also be sharing coffee and conversations with residents at
Melrose Meadows. On Feb. 26th they will be going to Cedar Falls for a career fair happening at Hawkeye
Community College. On Feb. 22nd and 26th Big Brother and Sisters of Johnson County will be having an event
called Bowl for Kid’s Sake.
Kollasch asked how the police department is reaching out to immigrant communities in Iowa City, so they
understand their rights during anticipated raids. Hall confirmed Joshua Dabusu, the other Community
Outreach Assistant, who works with immigrant and refugee communities in Iowa City will be holding a talk
that allows more building and rapport amongst the immigrant and refugee communities and the police
department. Mendez Shannon asked if there would be a possibility to create a Know Your Rights panel. Tre
Hall confirmed that is a possibility and offered contact information for Dabusu who is in charge of putting
together such events.
Kollasch asked if the Iowa City Police Department has a standing policy or potential cooperation with the
immigration and customs enforcement. Hall answered that the Iowa City Police Department takes all
recommendations from the City Attorney’s office as well as the Johnson County’s attorney’s office which is
where questions should be directed.
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Correspondence: The Commission received correspondence on upcoming events including “Insubordination:
Amma Julia Cooper and the “Courageous Revolt” against Jim Crow…” on Thursday Feb. 20th at 12:00pm and
“Tough Conversations about Racial Divide and How We Can Heal” on Saturday, Feb. 1st at the Iowa City Public
Library from 1-3pm. They also received an update from Houses Into Homes Youth Volunteer Academy, who
received the funds from the Racial Equity and Social Justice Grant, on their guidebook and curriculum.
Additionally, they also received a flyer for World Hijab Day happening in Coralville on Saturday Feb. 1st.
Funding Request: Iowa City Foreign Relations Council requested funding for a program in April “Climate
Resilience Together.” The group is requesting $250 and has provided an itemized budget breakdown. The
funding would primarily support significant personnel time and effort including staff time, marketing
materials, and day of hosting to create a welcoming experience. Abdullahi was curious to know how the
program directly relates to eliminating racial, religious, cultural, and other intergroup tensions and if they
should ask for examples of that. Paul Shantz shared she would like to request more information as she is
curious to know the future of the organization given recent legislation passed by the US government. She
would also like to see more detailed breakdown of where the funding is going towards beyond staff time.
Kollasch agreed and wanted to see a more detailed breakdown of where the money is going and how it ties to
the work of the commission. Lusala agreed with the points made and would like to know more information as
well.
Strategic Plan: The commission discussed if they should change the time of year when they elect officers.
Currently new officers are elected in January of each year. This suggestion arose from the commission’s
strategic planning sessions when it was noted that because three new members are appointed every
January, they are then required to elect a chair and vice chair who they don’t know or worked alongside.
Paul Shantz suggested moving it to February. Harkin agreed with moving it to February, however, she does
not mind the January date. Lusala noted that the commission operates as one unit with equal responsibility,
so it may not be necessary to move the date. Kollasch agreed he feels it is not necessary to move the date
from January, at this time. Paul Shantz agreed but suggested moving the date to February as an experiment
to see if it lightens the load for the commission. Lusala agreed it may be beneficial to try but suggested not
officially changing the bylaws rather tabling it to a later date.
Lusala mentioned he appreciates the shared responsibility amongst commissioners. Kollasch mentioned it
was a priority for the commission to equally distribute responsibilities. Abdullahi mentioned that part of the
strategic plan that caught his eye was strengthening community engagement. Abdullahi suggested establishing
committees based on specific communities and rotating responsibilities between commission subcommittees
with the idea to focus intimately on working with specific community sectors. Paul Shantz agreed there is a
need to recognize where discrimination is occurring in the community and advocate for those groups. Paul
Shantz also suggested having the opportunity to have more responsiveness where a small coalition of people
who saw a need in the community could meet with commissioners to suggest how to act on these needs.
Kollasch spoke on the fragility of human rights in the current social climate. Lusala agreed there is a need to
respond and act during these times because of an unpredictable future.
Lusala noted flexibility will be important at this time. Harkin noted she liked the idea of flexibility within the
subcommittees. Kollasch stated the commission plans to focus on making recommendation to City Council for
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legislation on discrimination, a topic the commission has not had as much focus on in the past. Mendez
Shannon shared she is excited to see different ways the commission can elicit feedback from the community.
Kollasch agreed with Mendez Shannon and suggested having a set topic the commission can focus on and
advertise in hopes of gaining more community feedback. Paul Shantz shared that the commission has a
platform in the education space where they can invite people to participate in the commission’s discussions.
She also noted it may allow a space for those who have something to say but haven’t had a safe space to speak.
Mohamed spoke to the commission about the current issues of immigration and how the Iowa City schools are
responding. Paul Shantz moved to approve the strategic plan and Lusala seconded. Motion passed 7-0.
Racial Equity and Social Justice Grant: The grant will go live on March 1st and be available through April 1st.
It will be an online submission and an online review. Due to time constraints, it is unlikely there will be
time to do informational sessions for applicants, but it will be advertised that they can contact staff for and
technical assistance.
Save the dates:
Night of 1000 Dinners: Staff asked commissioners to inform of their interest in attending the event. Paul
Shantz shared she has attended in the past, and it was an enjoyable experience.
Youth Awards: The application for nominations will be going live soon. Juneteenth and Pride dates were
noted by Kollasch with Juneteenth occurring June 20th and Pride occurring June 21st. Kollasch also brought
up that the Human Rights Awards Breakfast will be occurring on October 22nd.
Staff & Commission Updates: Staff updated the commission contact sheet that once reviewed by
commissioners will be sent out to each one. Staff also showed commissioners how to sign up to get news
updates from the city via text or email.
Mendez Shannon updated on her attendance at the Escucha Mi Voz event. The event spoke on immigrant
rights and how to handle recent ICE raids and threats.
Paul Shantz updated on the importance of showing up for the community in times of hate and being able to
identify, act, and prevent hate speech and acts when and wherever possible. She also mentioned her
upcoming absence at the next meeting.
Kollasch updated on the current news of federal grant freezes and the impact of that issue. Kollasch also
brought up the local impact of political efforts to remove gender identity from the Iowa Civil Rights Act.
Kollasch mentioned One Iowa which is the state-wide group that organizes on behalf of the LGBTQ+
community in the state of Iowa and encouraged commissioners to get involved and educated with their
efforts.
Lusala accepted the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. proclamation on behalf of the commission. Lusala shared the
four visions of Dr. King’s that he finds valuable in today’s time including hope, standing up for what is right,
the dangers of staying silent, and faith.
Harkin updated on her reaction to the regression of human rights in our country due to recent political
changes and the need to stand up and act now more than ever. Harkin also spoke on her experience
volunteering at a recent expungement clinic.
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Adjourned: 7:01 PM.
The meeting can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/@citychannel4/videos.
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Human Rights Commission ATTENDANCE RECORD
YEAR 2025
(Meeting Date)
NAME TERMEXP.1/28 2/24 3/24 4/22 5/27 6/24 7/22 8/26 9/23 10/21 11/25
Viana Qadoura 2025 A
Idriss Abdullahi 2025 P
Mark Pries 2025 A
Roger Lusala 2026 P
Kelsey Paul Shantz 2026 P
Liz Mendez-Shannon 2026 P
Emily Harkin 2027 P
Doug Kollasch 2027 P
Lubna Mohamed 2027 Z
KEY:X =Present A = AbsentZ=Present via Zoom
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From:Peter Gerlach
To:Stefanie Bowers
Subject:Re: Human Rights Funding Form
Date:Wednesday, February 12, 2025 10:43:51 AM
Attachments:image001.png
** This email originated outside of the City of Iowa City email system. Please take extra care openingany links or attachments. **
Hello Stefanie,
Thank you and the Commission for consideration of this funding request. And I
appreciate the opportunity to revise and consider further our application. I hope the
below helps. Please let me know if you need anything else.
Best,
Peter
How the Program Relates to Eliminating Intergroup Tensions
The Fostering Climate Resilience Together panel directly addresses racial, religious,
cultural, and other intergroup tensions by bringing together diverse perspectives,
particularly those historically marginalized in climate policy discussions. The program
fosters dialogue and collaboration across different communities, including:
•Sovereign Tribal Communities: Indigenous voices are often excluded from
mainstream climate conversations. This event centers their knowledge and lived
experiences in climate resilience efforts.
• Women Farmland Owners: Women landowners, particularly in the Midwest, face
unique challenges in sustainable agriculture. By elevating their perspectives, the
program contributes to gender equity in environmental decision-making.
• Academic and Scientific Experts: University researchers from UI and ISU provide
data-driven insights while engaging with communities to ensure scientific findings
translate into real-world impact.
• Regional Collaboration: The discussion spans across four states (Iowa,
Nebraska, Kansas, and Missouri), bridging rural-urban divides and highlighting
common climate challenges that transcend geographic and cultural differences.
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By fostering understanding among these groups, the event reduces intergroup tensions
and promotes cooperative solutions to shared environmental challenges.
Breakdown of Funding Allocation
The requested funding will directly support the Fostering Climate Resilience Together
event by covering key expenses necessary for successful outreach, accessibility, and
community engagement. A portion of the funding will go toward marketing and outreach
efforts, ensuring broad participation through both digital and printed materials. This
includes promotional content designed to reach diverse audiences and highlight the
voices of sovereign tribal communities, women farmland owners, and climate
researchers.
Additionally, funding will contribute to the honoraria for two interns who play a crucial
role in facilitating a welcoming and smooth experience for attendees. Their support
helps with event coordination, accessibility, and engagement. A small portion will also
assist with the cost of printing and mailing materials, ensuring that information about
the event and its broader climate resilience efforts reach key stakeholders who may not
have access to digital platforms.
Further, the funding will help sustain necessary software subscriptions, such as Zoom
and Canva, which are integral for online engagement, content creation, and
communications. It will also support minor event-related expenses, such as
refreshments for meetings that bring together organizers and panelists for planning
discussions.
Each of these elements is essential in making the event not only possible but impactful,
ensuring that climate resilience efforts are approached collaboratively, inclusively, and
with broad community representation.
From: Stefanie Bowers <SBowers@iowa-city.org>
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 8:30 AM
To: Peter Gerlach <peter@icfrc.org>
Subject: RE: Human Rights Funding Form
Good morning,
The Commission considered the request from Iowa City Foreign Relations Council at its meeting on
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Tuesday, January 28. They have asked for staff to reach out to acquire more information. The
specifics are below. If you could please provide the information no later than Friday, February 14, I
can be sure to include it in their February meeting packet. Please let me know if you have any
questions.
1. How the program directly relates to eliminating racial, religious, cultural, and other intergroup
tensions and provide examples.
2. Provide a more detailed breakdown of where the funding is going towards beyond staff time.
Stefanie
From: no-reply@iowa-city.org <no-reply@iowa-city.org>
Sent: Wednesday, January 22, 2025 12:29 PM
To: HumanRights <HumanRights@iowa-city.org>
Subject: Human Rights Funding Form
Hello,
Please see the attached Human Rights Sponsorship Request form.
Please do not reply to this email. This email is system generated. This email address is not
monitored.
Disclaimer
The information contained in this communication from the sender is confidential. It is intended solely for useby the recipient and others authorized to receive it. If you are not the recipient, you are hereby notified thatany disclosure, copying, distribution or taking action in relation of the contents of this information is strictlyprohibited and may be unlawful.
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Human Rights Sponsorship Request Form
Cover Letter (required reading)
The Iowa City Human Rights Commission is allocated $2000 annually to provide financial assistance to community events designed to eliminate
racial, religious, cultural, or other intergroup tensions, including but not limited to, sex, color, creed, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation,
marital status, age, or national origin.
Rules and Requirements for Sponsorship:
The organization must be physically located in Iowa City.
The program must take place in Iowa City.
The program must have a date and location.
The event date must be prior to the request for financial assistance.
Applicants cannot be governments, public schools, or colleges/universities.
Applicants request cannot exceed $250.00.
Request must include a budget.
Request must include other sponsors.
Request cannot be for reimbursement or honorariums to speakers or guests.
Request cannot be for rental deposits for the venue.
Request cannot be for fundraising purposes.
Requests will be denied if another city department/division has financially contributed funding or will be contributing funds for the
program.
Funding will not be disbursed without the submission of a W9.
If the request is approved for financial assistance an organization cannot request any further assistance in the same fiscal year.
Signature*
Sign here that you have read and understand the rules and requirements.
Date Time
2025-01-22 12:28:26 PM
Application
Organization
Name *
Iowa City Foreign Relations Council
Address*
Street Address
308 E. Burlington Street #282
Address Line 2
City
Iowa City
State/Province/Region
IA
Postal/Zip Code
5240
Country
USA
Contact person
Name *
Peter Gerlach
Preferred pronouns
he/him
Phone number *
319.244.8886
Email address *
peter@icfrc.org
Program details
Date of Program*
4/4/2025
Program Title *
Fostering Climate Resilience Together
Location name*
Iowa City Public Library
Location Address *
Street Address
123 S Linn Street
Address Line 2
City
Iowa City
State/Province/Region
IA
Postal/Zip Code
52240
Country
USA
Describe how the program eliminates racial, religious, cultural, or other intergroup tensions, related, but not limited to: sex,
color, creed, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, age, or national origin.*
ICFRC is an independent, non-partisan organization that hosts speaker programs, community forums, and educational experiences to help
Iowans better understand international issues and foster global engagement. We welcome, include, and support people of all
backgrounds and beliefs and are enriched by learning from and with each other. We embrace the responsibility of creating spaces in which
people feel welcome to learn from and engage with others across all lines of difference.
Is there a financial cost to participate in the project?*
Yes No
Describe how socioeconomic barriers to attendance will be addressed.
All ICFRC programs are free and open to the public, with in-person, livestream, and recordings for late viewing options. This program is
hosted at the ICPL, a community-oriented space in the heart of downtown.
Previous Next
Budget
Amount Requested (Maximum request $250.00)*
$250.00
Has any City of Iowa City department or division provided any support for this event?*
(Include in-kind and financial support)
Yes
No
Will any City of Iowa City department or division provide any support for this event?*
(Include in-kind and financial support)
Yes
No
Please list all funding sources or in-kind support for this event including the amount*
We are currently reaching out to partners and other organizations in the community for funding support.
Attache Itemized Budget
ICFRC - Itemized Budget - City of Iowa City Human Rights Sponsorship Request Form.docx 16.09KB
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Itemized Budget
City of Iowa City Human Rights Sponsorship Request Form
Fostering Climate Resilience Together
Friday, April 4, 12-1pm, ICPL Speakers: Dr. William Gutowski, Jr., Dr. Martha Durr, Dr. Brandi Janssen, and Dr. Linda Shenk
Description: A panel of UI and ISU researchers, sovereign tribal communities, and women
farmland-owners will discuss how they are collaborating to foster climate resilience through a
recently funded NOAA Climate Adaptations program that supports the Central Midwest states of
Iowa, Nebraska, Kansas, and Missouri.
More information about the NOAA Climate Adaptations Program here.
As a small nonprofit, we are primarily requesting support for significant personnel time and effort.
This includes staff time for:
producing and disseminating marketing materials
day-of hosting
support from two interns to create a welcoming and smooth experience for attendees.
Thank you in advance for considering this request, Peter
Peter Gerlach
Executive Director ICFRC
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Human Rights Sponsorship Request Form
Cover Letter (required reading)
The Iowa City Human Rights Commission is allocated $2000 annually to provide financial assistance to community events designed to eliminate
racial, religious, cultural, or other intergroup tensions, including but not limited to, sex, color, creed, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation,
marital status, age, or national origin.
Rules and Requirements for Sponsorship:
The organization must be physically located in Iowa City.
The program must take place in Iowa City.
The program must have a date and location.
The event date must be prior to the request for financial assistance.
Applicants cannot be governments, public schools, or colleges/universities.
Applicants request cannot exceed $250.00.
Request must include a budget.
Request must include other sponsors.
Request cannot be for reimbursement or honorariums to speakers or guests.
Request cannot be for rental deposits for the venue.
Request cannot be for fundraising purposes.
Requests will be denied if another city department/division has financially contributed funding or will be contributing funds for the
program.
Funding will not be disbursed without the submission of a W9.
If the request is approved for financial assistance an organization cannot request any further assistance in the same fiscal year.
Signature*
Sign here that you have read and understand the rules and requirements.
Date Time
2025-02-05 04:30:03 PM
Application
Organization
Name *
FilmScene
Address*
Street Address
404 E College #100
Address Line 2
City
Iowa City
State/Province/Region
IA
Postal/Zip Code
52240
Country
USA
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Contact person
Name *
Hayley Crabb
Preferred pronouns
she / her
Phone number *
3198557740
Email address *
hayley@icfilmscene.org
Program details
Date of Program*
3/27/2025
Program Title *
Iowa Disability Film Festival
Location name*
FilmScene at The Chauncey
Location Address *
Street Address
404 E College
Address Line 2
City
Iowa City
State/Province/Region
IA
Postal/Zip Code
52240
Country
USA
Describe how the program eliminates racial, religious, cultural, or other intergroup tensions, related, but not limited to: sex,
color, creed, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, age, or national origin.*
The second annual Iowa Disability Film Festival (3/27 - 3/29) will present award-winning films by and about people with disabilities with
engaging programs that bring together communities to explore, discuss, embrace, and celebrate the diversity of our shared human
experience. All tickets are pay-what-you-can, with ASL interpreters, open captions, and descriptive audio (when available). The fest is
planned by a committee of staff, local experts, and community members with lived experience.
Is there a financial cost to participate in the project?*
Yes No
Describe how socioeconomic barriers to attendance will be addressed.
The Iowa Disability Film Festival is pay-what-you-can, so patrons can pay $0 to attend (we set the suggested ticket price at $10).
Previous Next
Budget
Amount Requested (Maximum request $250.00)*
$250.00
Has any City of Iowa City department or division provided any support for this event?*
(Include in-kind and financial support)
Yes
No
Will any City of Iowa City department or division provide any support for this event?*
(Include in-kind and financial support)
Yes
No
Please list all funding sources or in-kind support for this event including the amount*
Hoefer & Flaming - $2,500
Bradley & Riley - $500
MidAmerican Energy - $500
Shuttleworth & Ingersoll - $500
University of Iowa Department of Health & Human Physiology - $500
University of Iowa College of Public Health - $500
Veterans Law Office of Amy B. Kretkowski - $500
MP Climb On - $250
Get Fresh Cafe - donated desserts - in kind TBD
KCRG Cares - donated on air promotions - $11,000 in kind
While we are asking for $250, any support from the City of Iowa City Human Rights Sponsorship program will help us cover accessibility
features like ASL interpreters for the Iowa Disability Film Festival.
Attache Itemized Budget
Iowa Disability Film Festival Budget_City of Iowa City.xlsx 9.67KB
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EXPENSES
Catering $500.00
ASL interpretation $1,200.00
Descriptive Audio $700.00
Film Licencing $1,500.00
Personnel & staffing $4,293.00
TOTAL $8,193.00
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Updated_11.7.2024
All Are Welcome in Iowa
Resolution Declaring All Are Welcome in Iowa City
Whereas, equal rights under the law and liberty for all is foundational to our nation and government; and
Whereas, the Declaration of Independence states, “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all [people] are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness”; and
Whereas, the Iowa state motto states, “Our liberties we prize and our rights we will maintain”; and
Whereas, the Iowa Civil Rights Act passed in 1965 and amended in 2007 includes
employment, housing, public accommodations, education, and credit considerations as
areas of life that cannot be used for discrimination based on a person's color, creed, gender identity, marital status, national origin, disability, race, religion, sex, and sexual orientation; and
Whereas, many Iowans are experiencing anger and fear due to several laws passed in
Iowa in 2023 and 2024, including the Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA), which codifies religious exemptions allowing individuals to use religious beliefs as legal justification to discriminate against other Iowans who are then deprived of their rights and liberties; and
Whereas, discrimination and inequality erode the founding principles of our society and government; and
Whereas, equal rights under the law and liberty for all require that anti-discrimination
protections be considered a compelling government interest and the least restrictive means of achieving that interest. A religious liberty claim should not be elevated above or overrule by law other equally important rights and liberties; and
Whereas, no person should be allowed to use religion, religious freedom, or any other
reason as justification to discriminate against another person based on color, creed, gender identity, marital status, national origin, disability, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, reproductive status, violence survivor status; and
Whereas, Iowans are leaving our communities and the state due to the dangers of
RFRA and other laws passed by Iowa lawmakers that send a message contrary to our state’s motto and the promise that All Are Welcome in Iowa; and
ALL ARE WELCOME IN IOWA COALITION
INTERFAITH ALLIANCE OF IOWA | PO Box 41086, Des Moines, IA 50311
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Updated_11.7.2024
interfaithallianceiowa.org | 515.279.8715 | info@interfaithallianceiowa.org
Whereas, these laws, including RFRA, harm the reputation of our state and the best
interests of its business community as well as cities and counties large and small, urban and rural; and
Whereas, Iowa City aims to create a community where discrimination has no place. It
also recognizes ensuring complete safety or freedom from discrimination is a complex,
ongoing effort and collaboration among individuals, organizations, and government.
Therefore, be it resolved, Iowa City is committed to promoting a united vision where All Are Welcome in Iowa City and further commits Iowa City to being a discrimination-free
community. We recognize our responsibility to foster a community that actively works
towards inclusivity, equity, and the protection of rights for all, even as we acknowledge the ongoing nature of this work.
Be it further resolved, Iowa City encourages businesses, housing developments and
landlords, non-profit organizations, houses of worship, educational institutions, and
neighborhood associations to unite in the message All Are Welcome in Iowa City and declare themselves as a discrimination-free partner.
ALL ARE WELCOME IN IOWA COALITION
INTERFAITH ALLIANCE OF IOWA | PO Box 41086, Des Moines, IA 50311interfaithallianceiowa.org | 515.279.8715 | info@interfaithallianceiowa.org
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Agenda Item #11
She SpeaksShe Speaks
Robert A. Lee Recreation Center
220 S. Gilbert St.
1 - 3 p.m.
Women's Day
;SQIRMRHMZMHYEPW[LSMHIRXMJ]EW[SQIRERHWomen, individuals who identify as women, and
RSRFMREV]MRHMZMHYEPWEVI[IPGSQInon-binary individuals are welcome!
March 8, 2024
2S*IINo Fee
pIEVRMRKERHKVS[MRKXSKIXLIVLearning and growing together!
Agenda Item #11
Drafted 2/11/25, updated 2/20/25
Civil and Human Rights Commissioner sign-on letter
We, the undersigned Commissioners from Civil and Human Rights Commissions across Iowa,
unequivocally oppose any effort to strip gender identity protections from the Iowa Civil Rights
Act. HSB242 is an unprecedented and dangerous attack on fundamental rights—it seeks to
eliminate all civil rights protections for transgender Iowans, impose invasive restrictions on
bathrooms and birth certificates, and legally erase anyone who does not conform to rigid,
outdated definitions of "man" or "woman." This bill is a direct assault on equality, dignity, and the
core values of civil rights, and we urge you to oppose it in the strongest terms.
Since 2007, Iowa has recognized and affirmed the fundamental dignity of all its residents by
including gender identity as a protected class in our state’s civil rights law. This protection
ensures that all Iowans—regardless of gender identity—can live, work, and participate fully in
society free from discrimination.
Iowa has long been a leader in advancing civil rights. In 1839, we were among the first states to
reject slavery through our Supreme Court decision in In Re Ralph. In 1868, we struck down
racial segregation in education. In 2009, we became one of the first states to affirm marriage
equality. These decisions have placed Iowa on the right side of history, demonstrating our
collective commitment to fairness, justice, and equal treatment under the law.
Removing gender identity protections would represent a dangerous step backward. It would
signal to transgender and gender-nonconforming Iowans that they are unworthy of the same
rights and protections afforded to others. It would embolden discrimination in employment,
housing, public accommodations, education, and beyond—areas where safeguards are critical
to ensuring everyone has a fair shot at success and security.
Eliminating these protections from the Iowa Civil Rights Act would send a clear and harmful
message: Iowa is not a place where all people are welcome to live, work, and thrive. This
regressive move would have far-reaching consequences, deterring businesses, talent, and
investment while deepening harm to already marginalized communities. Beyond the immediate
impact on transgender Iowans, this bill threatens our state’s workforce, economic growth, and
hard-earned reputation as a place that upholds fairness, inclusion, and opportunity for all. This
legislation would set Iowa back, making it less competitive and less attractive for future growth.
As Commissioners serving on Iowa’s civil and human rights commissions across the state, we
have been entrusted by all the people of Iowa to uphold and protect their fundamental civil
rights. It is our duty to ensure that every Iowan—regardless of gender identity—is treated with
dignity, fairness, and respect under the law.
We strongly urge you to reject this harmful proposal and instead work toward strengthening and
expanding civil rights protections, rather than dismantling them. Weakening protections for any
group undermines the very foundation of equality and justice that Iowa stands for. Our
Agenda Item #12
Drafted 2/11/25, updated 2/20/25
commitment to civil rights must be unwavering, and we call on you to stand with us in defending
the rights of all Iowans, ensuring that our state remains a place of opportunity, inclusion, and
fairness for everyone.
Thank you for your time and consideration. We welcome the opportunity to discuss this matter
further and stand ready to work with you to protect and advance civil rights in Iowa.
Signatories
Name City, Role, Commission
Bethany Snyder Chair, Urbandale Civil Rights Commission
Erlin Kakkanad Ekakkanad Commissioner, West Des Moines Human Rights
Commission
Doug Kollasch
House Study Bill 242 -Introduced
HOUSE FILE _____
BY (PROPOSED COMMITTEE
ON JUDICIARY BILL BY
CHAIRPERSON HOLT)
A BILL FOR
An Act relating to sex and gender,including those and related1
terms for purposes of statutory construction,indications2
of a person’s sex on certain vital records,gender identity3
under the Iowa civil rights Act,and school curricula4
related to gender theory.5
BE IT ENACTED BY THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF IOWA:6
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Agenda Item #12
H.F._____
Section 1.NEW SECTION.4.1A Statutory construction ——sex1
and related terms.2
1.In the construction of statutes,the following rules3
shall be observed with regard to a person’s biological sex:4
a.“Sex”,when used to classify or describe a natural5
person,means the state of being either male or female as6
observed or clinically verified at birth.7
b.When used in reference to a natural person,a “female”8
means an individual who has,had,will have through the course9
of normal development,or would have but for a developmental10
anomaly,genetic anomaly,or accident,a reproductive system11
that at some point produces ova,and a “male”means an12
individual who has,had,will have through the course of normal13
development,or would have but for a developmental anomaly,14
genetic anomaly,or accident,a reproductive system that at15
some point produces sperm.16
c.The term “woman”or “girl”refers to a female and the17
term “man”or “boy”refers to a male.18
d.The term “mother”means a parent who is female and the19
term “father”means a parent who is male.20
e.“Gender”,when used alone in reference to males,females,21
or the natural differences between males and females shall22
be considered a synonym for sex and shall not be considered23
a synonym or shorthand expression for gender identity,24
experienced gender,gender expression,or gender role.25
f.The term “equal”does not mean “same”or “identical”.26
g.Separate accommodations are not inherently unequal.27
h.A person born with a medically verifiable diagnosis of28
disorder or difference of sex development shall be provided the29
legal protections and accommodations afforded under the federal30
Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and applicable state31
law.32
2.Any state law,policy,or program that prohibits33
discrimination on the basis of sex shall be construed to forbid34
unfair treatment of females or males in relation to similarly35
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H.F._____
situated members of the opposite sex.1
3.Notwithstanding any provision of state law to the2
contrary,distinctions based on sex,including but not limited3
to in prisons or other detention facilities,domestic violence4
shelters,rape crisis centers,locker rooms,restrooms,and in5
other contexts where health,safety,or privacy are implicated6
resulting in separate accommodations,are substantially related7
to the important government objectives of protecting the8
health,safety,and privacy of the persons in these contexts.9
4.Any state department or subunit of a department,or any10
political subdivision of the state including a city,county,11
township,or school district that collects vital statistics for12
the purpose of complying with state antidiscrimination laws,13
or for the purpose of gathering accurate state public health,14
crime,economic,or other data,shall identify the sex of each15
person included in the collected data as either male or female.16
5.For the purposes of this section,“state law”includes17
any state statute or rule.18
Sec.2.Section 84A.6,subsection 4,paragraph a,Code 2025,19
is amended to read as follows:20
a.The department of workforce development,in consultation21
with the department of education,shall establish a system that22
allows the department of education,school districts,charter23
schools,area education agencies,and accredited nonpublic24
schools to post job openings on an internet site.The system25
must include a mechanism for the electronic submission of job26
openings for posting on the internet site.The system and27
each job posting on the internet site must include a statement28
that an employer submitting a job opening for posting on the29
internet site will not discriminate in hiring on the basis30
of race,ethnicity,national origin,gender,age,physical31
disability,sexual orientation,gender identity,religion,32
marital status,or status as a veteran.33
Sec.3.Section 144.13,Code 2025,is amended by adding the34
following new subsection:35
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H.F._____
NEW SUBSECTION.5.A certificate of birth filed under this1
section shall include a designation of the sex of the person.2
“Sex”for purposes of this chapter means the same as defined in3
section 4.1A.If the sex of the child cannot be determined at4
birth,the time period for filing a certificate of birth shall5
be extended for a period of no more than six months to allow the6
parents to obtain any diagnosis or testing from a health care7
provider as defined in section 144.29A,subsection 7,paragraph8
“a”,that is necessary to determine the child’s sex.9
Sec.4.Section 144.23,Code 2025,is amended to read as10
follows:11
144.23 State registrar to issue establish new certificate of12
birth.13
1.The state registrar shall establish a new certificate of14
birth for a person born in this state,when the state registrar15
receives the following:16
1.a.An adoption report as provided in section 144.19,or17
a certified copy of the decree of adoption together with the18
information necessary to identify the original certificate of19
birth and to establish a new certificate of birth.20
2.b.A request that a new certificate be established and21
evidence proving that the person for whom the new certificate22
is requested has been legitimated,or that a court of competent23
jurisdiction has determined the paternity of the person.24
3.A notarized affidavit by a licensed physician and surgeon25
or osteopathic physician and surgeon stating that by reason of26
surgery or other treatment by the licensee,the sex designation27
of the person has been changed.The state registrar may make a28
further investigation or require further information necessary29
to determine whether a sex change has occurred.30
2.Pursuant to section 4.1A,a new certificate of birth31
established under subsection 1 shall include a designation of32
sex of the person at birth.33
Sec.5.Section 144.24,subsections 1 and 2,Code 2025,are34
amended to read as follows:35
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H.F._____
1.If a new certificate of birth is established,the actual1
place and date of birth shall be shown on the certificate and2
shall include a designation of the person’s sex pursuant to3
section 144.23.The certificate shall be substituted for the4
original certificate of birth.5
2.Following substitution of the original certificate of6
birth with a new certificate of birth,the original certificate7
and the evidence of adoption,paternity,or legitimation,or8
sex change shall not be subject to inspection except under9
order of a court of competent jurisdiction,including but10
not limited to an order issued pursuant to section 261I.211
or 600.16A,as provided in section 144.23A or 144.24A,12
or as provided by administrative rule for statistical or13
administrative purposes only.14
Sec.6.Section 144.31B,subsection 5,paragraph b,15
subparagraph (2),Code 2025,is amended to read as follows:16
(2)The name and gender sex,if known.If the name is not17
furnished by the patient,the department shall complete the18
certificate with the name “baby boy”or “baby girl”and the19
last name of the patient.If the gender sex is unknown,the20
department shall complete the certificate with the name “baby”21
and the last name of the patient.22
Sec.7.Section 216.2,subsection 12,Code 2025,is amended23
by striking the subsection.24
Sec.8.Section 216.6,subsection 1,paragraphs a,b,and c,25
Code 2025,are amended to read as follows:26
a.Person to refuse to hire,accept,register,classify,27
or refer for employment,to discharge any employee,or to28
otherwise discriminate in employment against any applicant29
for employment or any employee because of the age,race,30
creed,color,sex,sexual orientation,gender identity,31
national origin,religion,or disability of such applicant or32
employee,unless based upon the nature of the occupation.If a33
person with a disability is qualified to perform a particular34
occupation,by reason of training or experience,the nature35
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H.F._____
of that occupation shall not be the basis for exception to1
the unfair or discriminatory practices prohibited by this2
subsection.3
b.Labor organization or the employees,agents,or members4
thereof to refuse to admit to membership any applicant,to5
expel any member,or to otherwise discriminate against any6
applicant for membership or any member in the privileges,7
rights,or benefits of such membership because of the age,8
race,creed,color,sex,sexual orientation,gender identity,9
national origin,religion,or disability of such applicant or10
member.11
c.Employer,employment agency,labor organization,or the12
employees,agents,or members thereof to directly or indirectly13
advertise or in any other manner indicate or publicize that14
individuals of any particular age,race,creed,color,sex,15
sexual orientation,gender identity,national origin,religion,16
or disability are unwelcome,objectionable,not acceptable,or17
not solicited for employment or membership unless based on the18
nature of the occupation.19
(1)If a person with a disability is qualified to perform a20
particular occupation by reason of training or experience,the21
nature of that occupation shall not be the basis for exception22
to the unfair or discriminatory practices prohibited by this23
subsection.24
(2)An employer,employment agency,or their employees,25
servants,or agents may offer employment or advertise for26
employment to only persons with disabilities,when other27
applicants have available to them other employment compatible28
with their ability which would not be available to persons29
with disabilities because of their disabilities.Any such30
employment or offer of employment shall not discriminate among31
persons with disabilities on the basis of race,color,creed,32
sex,sexual orientation,gender identity,or national origin.33
Sec.9.Section 216.6,subsection 6,paragraph d,Code 2025,34
is amended to read as follows:35
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H.F._____
d.Any bona fide religious institution or its educational1
facility,association,corporation,or society with respect2
to any qualifications for employment based on religion,or3
sexual orientation,or gender identity when such qualifications4
are related to a bona fide religious purpose.A religious5
qualification for instructional personnel or an administrative6
officer,serving in a supervisory capacity of a bona fide7
religious educational facility or religious institution,shall8
be presumed to be a bona fide occupational qualification.9
Sec.10.Section 216.6A,subsection 1,paragraph a,10
unnumbered paragraph 1,Code 2025,is amended to read as11
follows:12
The general assembly finds that the practice of13
discriminating against any employee because of the age,14
race,creed,color,sex,sexual orientation,gender identity,15
national origin,religion,or disability of such employee by16
paying wages to such employee at a rate less than the rate paid17
to other employees does all of the following:18
Sec.11.Section 216.6A,subsection 1,paragraph b,Code19
2025,is amended to read as follows:20
b.The general assembly declares that it is the policy21
of this state to correct and,as rapidly as possible,to22
eliminate,discriminatory wage practices based on age,race,23
creed,color,sex,sexual orientation,gender identity,24
national origin,religion,and disability.25
Sec.12.Section 216.6A,subsection 2,paragraph a,Code26
2025,is amended to read as follows:27
a.It shall be an unfair or discriminatory practice for any28
employer or agent of any employer to discriminate against any29
employee because of the age,race,creed,color,sex,sexual30
orientation,gender identity,national origin,religion,or31
disability of such employee by paying wages to such employee32
at a rate less than the rate paid to other employees who are33
employed within the same establishment for equal work on jobs,34
the performance of which requires equal skill,effort,and35
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H.F._____
responsibility,and which are performed under similar working1
conditions.An employer or agent of an employer who is paying2
wages to an employee at a rate less than the rate paid to other3
employees in violation of this section shall not remedy the4
violation by reducing the wage rate of any employee.5
Sec.13.Section 216.6A,subsection 3,paragraph d,Code6
2025,is amended to read as follows:7
d.Pay differential is based on any other factor other than8
the age,race,creed,color,sex,sexual orientation,gender9
identity,national origin,religion,or disability of such10
employee.11
Sec.14.Section 216.7,subsection 1,paragraphs a and b,12
Code 2025,are amended to read as follows:13
a.To refuse or deny to any person because of race,14
creed,color,sex,sexual orientation,gender identity,15
national origin,religion,or disability the accommodations,16
advantages,facilities,services,or privileges thereof,17
or otherwise to discriminate against any person because of18
race,creed,color,sex,sexual orientation,gender identity,19
national origin,religion,or disability in the furnishing20
of such accommodations,advantages,facilities,services,or21
privileges.22
b.To directly or indirectly advertise or in any other23
manner indicate or publicize that the patronage of persons of24
any particular race,creed,color,sex,sexual orientation,25
gender identity,national origin,religion,or disability is26
unwelcome,objectionable,not acceptable,or not solicited.27
Sec.15.Section 216.7,subsection 2,paragraph a,Code28
2025,is amended to read as follows:29
a.Any bona fide religious institution with respect to any30
qualifications the institution may impose based on religion,or31
sexual orientation,or gender identity when such qualifications32
are related to a bona fide religious purpose.33
Sec.16.Section 216.8,subsection 1,paragraphs a,b,c,34
and d,Code 2025,are amended to read as follows:35
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H.F._____
a.To refuse to sell,rent,lease,assign,sublease,refuse1
to negotiate,or to otherwise make unavailable,or deny any2
real property or housing accommodation or part,portion,or3
interest therein,to any person because of the race,color,4
creed,sex,sexual orientation,gender identity,religion,5
national origin,disability,or familial status of such person.6
b.To discriminate against any person because of the7
person’s race,color,creed,sex,sexual orientation,gender8
identity,religion,national origin,disability,or familial9
status,in the terms,conditions,or privileges of the sale,10
rental,lease assignment,or sublease of any real property or11
housing accommodation or any part,portion,or interest in the12
real property or housing accommodation or in the provision of13
services or facilities in connection with the real property or14
housing accommodation.15
c.To directly or indirectly advertise,or in any other16
manner indicate or publicize that the purchase,rental,17
lease,assignment,or sublease of any real property or housing18
accommodation or any part,portion,or interest therein,by19
persons of any particular race,color,creed,sex,sexual20
orientation,gender identity,religion,national origin,21
disability,or familial status is unwelcome,objectionable,not22
acceptable,or not solicited.23
d.To discriminate against the lessee or purchaser of any24
real property or housing accommodation or part,portion,or25
interest of the real property or housing accommodation,or26
against any prospective lessee or purchaser of the property or27
accommodation,because of the race,color,creed,religion,28
sex,sexual orientation,gender identity,disability,age,or29
national origin of persons who may from time to time be present30
in or on the lessee’s or owner’s premises for lawful purposes31
at the invitation of the lessee or owner as friends,guests,32
visitors,relatives,or in any similar capacity.33
Sec.17.Section 216.8A,subsections 1,2,and 5,Code 2025,34
are amended to read as follows:35
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H.F._____
1.A person shall not induce or attempt to induce another1
person to sell or rent a dwelling by representations regarding2
the entry or prospective entry into a neighborhood of a person3
of a particular race,color,creed,sex,sexual orientation,4
gender identity,religion,national origin,disability,or5
familial status.6
2.A person shall not represent to a person of a particular7
race,color,creed,sex,sexual orientation,gender identity,8
religion,national origin,disability,or familial status that9
a dwelling is not available for inspection,sale,or rental10
when the dwelling is available for inspection,sale,or rental.11
5.A person shall not deny another person access to,12
or membership or participation in,a multiple-listing13
service,real estate brokers’organization or other service,14
organization,or facility relating to the business of selling15
or renting dwellings,or discriminate against a person in16
terms or conditions of access,membership,or participation in17
such organization because of race,color,creed,sex,sexual18
orientation,gender identity,religion,national origin,19
disability,or familial status.20
Sec.18.Section 216.8A,subsection 4,paragraph a,Code21
2025,is amended to read as follows:22
a.A person whose business includes engaging in residential23
real estate related transactions shall not discriminate24
against a person in making a residential real estate25
related transaction available or in terms or conditions of26
a residential real estate related transaction because of27
race,color,creed,sex,sexual orientation,gender identity,28
religion,national origin,disability,or familial status.29
Sec.19.Section 216.9,subsection 1,unnumbered paragraph30
1,Code 2025,is amended to read as follows:31
It is an unfair or discriminatory practice for any32
educational institution to discriminate on the basis of33
race,creed,color,sex,sexual orientation,gender identity,34
national origin,religion,or disability in any program or35
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H.F._____
activity.Such discriminatory practices shall include but not1
be limited to the following practices:2
Sec.20.Section 216.9,subsection 2,Code 2025,is amended3
to read as follows:4
2.For the purpose of this section,“educational5
institution”includes any preschool,elementary or secondary6
school,community college,area education agency,or7
postsecondary college or university and their governing boards.8
This section does not prohibit an educational institution9
from maintaining separate toilet facilities,locker rooms,or10
living facilities for the different sexes so long as comparable11
facilities are provided.Nothing in this section shall be12
construed as prohibiting any bona fide religious institution13
from imposing qualifications based on religion,or sexual14
orientation,or gender identity when such qualifications are15
related to a bona fide religious purpose or any institution16
from admitting students of only one sex.17
Sec.21.Section 216.10,subsection 1,paragraphs a,b,and18
c,Code 2025,are amended to read as follows:19
a.Creditor to refuse to enter into a consumer credit20
transaction or impose finance charges or other terms or21
conditions more onerous than those regularly extended by that22
creditor to consumers of similar economic backgrounds because23
of age,color,creed,national origin,race,religion,marital24
status,sex,sexual orientation,gender identity,physical25
disability,or familial status.26
b.Person authorized or licensed to do business in this27
state pursuant to chapter 524,533,536,or 536A to refuse28
to loan or extend credit or to impose terms or conditions29
more onerous than those regularly extended to persons of30
similar economic backgrounds because of age,color,creed,31
national origin,race,religion,marital status,sex,sexual32
orientation,gender identity,physical disability,or familial33
status.34
c.Creditor to refuse to offer credit life or health and35
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H.F._____
accident insurance because of color,creed,national origin,1
race,religion,marital status,age,physical disability,2
sex,sexual orientation,gender identity,or familial status.3
Refusal by a creditor to offer credit life or health and4
accident insurance based upon the age or physical disability of5
the consumer shall not be an unfair or discriminatory practice6
if such denial is based solely upon bona fide underwriting7
considerations not prohibited by Title XIII,subtitle 1.8
Sec.22.Section 216.12,subsection 1,paragraph a,Code9
2025,is amended to read as follows:10
a.Any bona fide religious institution with respect to11
any qualifications it may impose based on religion,or sexual12
orientation,or gender identity,when the qualifications are13
related to a bona fide religious purpose,unless the religious14
institution owns or operates property for a commercial purpose15
or membership in the religion is restricted on account of race,16
color,or national origin.17
Sec.23.Section 216.12A,Code 2025,is amended to read as18
follows:19
216.12A Additional housing exception.20
Sections 216.8 and 216.8A do not prohibit a person engaged21
in the business of furnishing appraisals of real estate from22
taking into consideration factors other than race,color,23
creed,sex,sexual orientation,gender identity,religion,24
national origin,disability,or familial status in appraising25
real estate.26
Sec.24.Section 256E.7,subsection 2,paragraphs a and p,27
Code 2025,are amended to read as follows:28
a.Meet all applicable federal,state,and local health and29
safety requirements and laws prohibiting discrimination on the30
basis of race,creed,color,sex,sexual orientation,gender31
identity,national origin,religion,ancestry,or disability.32
If approved under section 256E.4,the charter school shall be33
subject to any court-ordered desegregation in effect for the34
school district at the time the charter school application is35
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approved,unless otherwise specifically provided for in the1
desegregation order.2
p.Be subject to and comply with the requirements of section3
279.80 relating to sexual orientation and gender identity4
theory instruction in kindergarten through grade six in the5
same manner as a school district.6
Sec.25.Section 256F.4,subsection 2,paragraphs a and n,7
Code 2025,are amended to read as follows:8
a.Meet all applicable federal,state,and local health and9
safety requirements and laws prohibiting discrimination on the10
basis of race,creed,color,sex,sexual orientation,gender11
identity,national origin,religion,ancestry,or disability.12
A charter school or innovation zone school located within13
the boundaries of a school district subject to court-ordered14
desegregation at the time the charter school or innovation15
zone school application is approved shall be subject to the16
desegregation order unless otherwise specifically provided for17
in the desegregation order.18
n.Be subject to and comply with the requirements of section19
279.80 relating to sexual orientation and gender identity20
theory instruction in kindergarten through grade six in the21
same manner as a school district.22
Sec.26.Section 261I.1,subsection 3,Code 2025,is amended23
to read as follows:24
3.“Sex”means a person’s biological sex as either female or25
male the same as defined in section 4.1A.The sex listed on a26
student’s official birth certificate or certificate issued upon27
adoption may be relied upon shall be considered presumptively28
correct if the certificate was issued at or near the time of29
the student’s birth.30
Sec.27.Section 279.78,subsection 1,paragraph a,Code31
2025,is amended to read as follows:32
a.“Gender identity”means the same as defined in section33
216.2 an individual’s subjective identification as male,34
female,or neither male nor female.Gender identity shall not35
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be considered a synonym or substitute for sex or gender.1
Sec.28.Section 279.80,Code 2025,is amended to read as2
follows:3
279.80 Sexual orientation and gender identity theory ——4
prohibited instruction.5
1.As used in this section:6
a.“Gender identity”“Gender theory”means the same as7
defined in section 216.2 concept that an individual may8
properly be described in terms of an internal sense of gender9
that is incongruent with the individual’s sex as either10
male or female.“Gender theory”includes the concept that11
an individual who experiences distress or discomfort with12
the individual’s sex should identify as and live consistent13
with the individual’s internal sense of gender,and that14
an individual can delay natural puberty and develop sex15
characteristics of the opposite sex through the use of puberty16
blockers,cross-sex hormones,and surgical procedures.17
b.“Sexual orientation”means the same as defined in section18
216.2.19
2.A school district shall not provide any program,20
curriculum,test,survey,questionnaire,promotion,or21
instruction relating to gender identity theory or sexual22
orientation to students in kindergarten through grade six.23
Sec.29.Section 280.33,subsection 1,paragraph c,Code24
2025,is amended to read as follows:25
c.“Sex”means a person’s biological sex as female or male,26
as the same as defined in section 4.1A.The sex listed on27
a person’s official birth certificate or certificate issued28
upon adoption shall be considered presumptively correct if the29
certificate was issued at or near the time of the person’s30
birth.31
Sec.30.SEVERABILITY.If any provision of this Act is32
held invalid,the invalidity shall not affect other provisions33
or applications of this Act which can be given effect without34
the invalid provision or application,and to this end the35
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provisions of this Act are severable as provided in section1
4.12.2
EXPLANATION3
The inclusion of this explanation does not constitute agreement with4
the explanation’s substance by the members of the general assembly.5
This bill relates to sex and gender,including those6
and related terms for purposes of statutory construction,7
indications of a person’s sex on certain vital records,gender8
identity under the Iowa civil rights Act,and school curricula9
related to gender theory.10
The bill creates a new Code section 4.1A (statutory11
construction ——sex and related terms).The bill provides12
that certain rules of statutory construction shall be observed13
with regard to a person’s sex.These rules with regard to a14
person’s sex include:15
1.The term “sex”,when used to classify or describe a16
natural person,means the state of being either male or female17
as observed or clinically verified at birth.18
2.When used in reference to a natural person,the term19
“female”means an individual who has,had,will have through20
the course of normal development,or would have but for21
a developmental anomaly,genetic anomaly,or accident,a22
reproductive system that at some point produces ova,and23
the term “male”means an individual who has,had,will have24
through the course of normal development,or would have but25
for a developmental anomaly,genetic anomaly,or accident a26
reproductive system that at some point produces sperm.27
3.The term “woman”or “girl”refers to a female and the28
term “man”or “boy”refers to a male.29
4.The term “mother”means a parent who is female and the30
term “father”means a parent who is male.31
5.The term “gender”,when used alone in reference to32
males,females,or the natural differences between males and33
females shall be considered a synonym for sex and shall not34
be considered a synonym or shorthand expression for gender35
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identity,experienced gender,gender expression,or gender1
role.2
6.The term “equal”does not mean “same”or “identical”.3
7.Separate accommodations are not inherently unequal.4
8.A person born with a medically verifiable diagnosis of5
disorder or difference of sex development shall be provided the6
legal protections and accommodations afforded under the federal7
Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and applicable state8
law.9
Additionally,under the bill,any state law,policy,or10
program that prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex shall11
be construed to forbid unfair treatment of females or males in12
relation to similarly situated members of the opposite sex.13
Notwithstanding any provision of state law to the contrary,14
distinctions based on sex in various contexts where health,15
safety,or privacy are implicated resulting in separate16
accommodations,are substantially related to the important17
government objectives of protecting the health,safety,and18
privacy of the persons in these contexts.In addition,any19
state department or subunit of a department,or any political20
subdivision of the state including a city,county,township,21
or school district that collects vital statistics for the22
purpose of complying with state antidiscrimination laws or for23
the purpose of gathering accurate state public health,crime,24
economic,or other data,shall identify the sex of each person25
included in the collected data as either male or female.26
The bill defines “state law”for the purposes of new Code27
section 4.1A.28
The bill also amends provisions under Code chapter 14429
(vital statistics).The bill requires that an original30
certificate of birth shall include a designation of the sex of31
the person as defined in new Code section 4.1A.With regard32
to a new certificate of birth,if a new certificate of birth33
is established after the state registrar receives an adoption34
report or a certified copy of an adoption decree or following35
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a determination of paternity,the new certificate of birth1
shall include a designation of sex of the person at birth;2
and if a new certificate of birth is established after the3
state registrar receives a notarized affidavit by a licensed4
physician and surgeon or osteopathic physician and surgeon5
stating that by reason of surgery or other treatment by the6
licensee,the sex designation of the person has been changed,7
the new certificate of birth shall include a designation of the8
sex of the person both at the time of birth and at the time of9
establishment of the new certificate of birth.10
Under current law,Code chapter 216 prohibits discrimination11
in employment,wages,public accommodations,housing,12
education,and credit practices based upon certain13
characteristics of a person,including gender identity.14
A person who claims to be aggrieved by an unfair or15
discriminatory practice prohibited by Code chapter 216 may16
file a complaint with the Iowa civil rights commission.Code17
chapter 216 provides various remedies for such practices.Code18
chapter 216 defines “gender identity”as the gender-related19
identity of a person,regardless of the person’s assigned sex20
at birth.21
For purposes of Code chapter 216,the bill removes22
gender identity as a protected class.The bill also removes23
gender identity as a protected class in the prohibition of24
discrimination under federal,state,and local law for charter25
schools and innovation schools.26
Under current Code section 279.80,school districts,27
accredited nonpublic schools,charter schools,and innovation28
zone schools are prohibited from providing instruction related29
to gender identity and sexual orientation to students in30
kindergarten through grade six.The bill replaces the term31
“gender identity”with the term “gender theory”and defines32
“gender theory”.33
The bill makes conforming changes related to the strike of34
the definition of gender identity in the Code.35
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The bill provides that its provisions are severable pursuant1
to Code section 4.12.2
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