Washington bans gender discrimination.

• Position: YOUR LIFE - Brief article

In a 25-23 vote, the Washington state senate approved a bill banning discrimination based on gender identity or expression and sexual orientation. The law should go into effect June 7.

"Most Americans believe that everyone deserves to be treated equally regardless of race, sex, religion, or how well they measure up to preconceived notions about masculinity or femininity," proclaims Riki Wilchins, executive director of the Gender Public Advocacy Coalition, Washington, D.C. "Now all Washingtonians will be able to enjoy a basic right to fair treatment--in the workplace, schools, and public accommodations--whether or not they meet ideals for masculinity [or] femininity."

Gender identity refers to a person's sense of being male or female, while gender expression describes how individuals manifest feeling masculine or feminine through how they look, act, or dress.

A nondiscrimination law including protections...