A group of transgender and non-binary state lawmakers sent a letter to the Biden administration criticizing the decision to oppose gender reassignment surgery for minors.
in letterThe lawmakers said transgender youth in America have been subject to relentless legislative attacks from right-wing politicians in recent years. The biggest thing Republicans have done, they argued, is ban “evidence-based, necessary mental health care” for transgender kids.
“One bulwark against the tide of demonization and denial of treatment is President Joe Biden’s clear and consistent messaging,” the groups wrote.
Their response came after the White House said earlier this week that the administration supports gender reassignment treatment for minors, but believes gender reassignment surgery should be limited to adults.
The statement drew criticism from LGBTQ groups and those who said the administration has supported transgender young people in the past but is now abandoning them.
“By stating that some medical care for transgender people should be limited to adults only, the Administration is abandoning health care for young transgender people as something to be negotiated in the political realm, rather than something to be carefully considered and decided by the medical community, the parents of transgender youth, and the young people themselves,” the letter said.
The letter was signed by Montana Reps. Zooey Zephyr and SJ Howell, Montana Rep. Jerry Cannon, Minnesota Reps. Bryon Curran and Lee Finke, and Michigan Rep. Emily Dievendorf.
The lawmakers said they have fought for transgender rights across the country and know that access to gender transition care is key to whether or not someone can live a happy life.
“We have taken on this fight with the confidence that the Biden administration would stand in solidarity with us,” the groups wrote, adding that “this new statement from the administration… is a betrayal and heartbreaking.”
Lawmakers said they hope Tuesday’s rebuke from the administration was a misunderstanding or a mistake, adding that they expect a sign from President Biden that he will oppose attacks on treatments for minors, including puberty-suppressing drugs, hormone replacement therapy and surgery.
“Mr. President, our transgender youth need your support now more than ever,” they wrote. “You have made promises to us, and now it’s time for your administration to make clear its commitment to the well-being of transgender youth. We are counting on you.”
