A group of transgender and non-binary state lawmakers sent a letter to the Biden administration criticizing its decision to oppose gender-affirming surgery for minors.
In the letter, lawmakers said that trans youth in America have been under relentless legislative attack by right-wing politicians in recent years. The biggest thing Republicans did was ban “evidence-based, mentally necessary health care” for trans children, they argued.
“A bulwark against this wave of demonization and denial of care has been President Joe Biden’s clear and consistent message,” the group wrote.
His response comes after the White House said earlier this week that the administration supports gender-affirming care for minors but believes gender-affirming surgical care should be reserved for adults.
The statement drew criticism from LGTBQ organizations and those who say the administration has supported transgender youth in the past but is now abandoning them.
“By asserting that some forms of health care for trans people should be limited to adults only, the administration is dismissing health care for trans youth as something to be negotiated in the political realm rather than something that needs to be carefully considered and decided. by the medical community, by the parents of transgender youth, and by the youth themselves,” the letter said.
The letter was signed by Montana State Representatives Zooey Zephyr and SJ Howell, State Representatives Gerri Cannon, Minnesota State Representatives Brion Curran and Leigh Finke, and Michigan State Representative Emily Dievendorf.
The group of lawmakers said they have fought for transgender rights across the country and know how receiving transition care can make or break a happy life.
“We fought these fights believing that the Biden administration would support us in solidarity,” the group wrote, adding “we are heartbroken to say that this new administration statement is… a betrayal.”
Lawmakers said they hoped Tuesday’s administration rebuke was a miscommunication or an error. They added that they would be looking for a signal from President Biden that he will oppose attacks on minors’ care, such as puberty blockers, hormone replacement therapy and surgery.
“Mr. President, our transgender youth need you to protect them, now more than ever,” they wrote. “You have given us your word and this is the time for the administration to make clear its commitment to the well-being of young people transsexuals. We are counting on you.”
This story originally appeared on thehill.com read the full story
