During a recent government meeting, community members voiced urgent concerns regarding the ongoing impacts of long COVID and the treatment of LGBTQ+ youth in schools.

Evelyn Bowley, a local resident, shared her personal struggles growing up as a transgender individual in Buncombe County. Bowley recounted a harrowing journey marked by self-harm, eating disorders, and addiction, emphasizing that the lack of education and support regarding gender identity contributed to her suffering. She criticized current efforts to ban discussions of LGBTQ+ topics in schools, arguing that such measures do not protect children but rather exacerbate feelings of alienation and despair among vulnerable youth.

Bowley highlighted alarming statistics, noting that over 50% of transgender youth contemplate suicide, and called for a more compassionate and informed approach to education that acknowledges and supports diverse identities. She urged school officials to take immediate action to create a safer environment for all students, particularly those who identify as transgender.

Additionally, another speaker addressed the broader implications of long COVID, stressing the need for society to acknowledge and address the ongoing pandemic's effects on children. The speaker warned that ignoring these issues could lead to further harm within the community.

The meeting underscored a critical call for data-driven decisions and inclusive policies that prioritize the well-being of all children, particularly those facing significant health and identity challenges.