Support for Trans Community after Executive Orders
LGBTQ+ Community Protests President Trump’s Executive Orders
LGBTQ+ members from across the state met at the Capitol to protest President Trump’s executive orders, which restricted gender-affirming medical care for transgender individuals.
Restrictions on Gender-Affirming Medical Care
Gender-affirming medical care was one of many services restricted by the executive orders. Anyone under 19 who receives transition treatment like hormones or puberty blockers that are funded through the federal government would no longer be able to do so.
That’s something the trans community swears to be lifesaving. “Gender-affirming hormone therapy reduced suicide ideations by 40% among trans and nonbinary youth,” explained one advocate.
Legal Action and Support from New York State
Attorney General Letitia James and 22 other states across the country filed a lawsuit in opposition to the executive order. In response, a temporary restraining order was issued in federal court to prevent a funding freeze for treatment.
In a letter to hundreds of recipients of federal funding, James wrote, “Withholding the availability of services from transgender individuals based on their gender identity or their diagnosis of gender dysphoria, while offering such services to cisgender individuals, is discrimination under New York law.”
Continued Support from Medical Providers
NEWS10’s Anthony Krolikowski reached out to Capital Region medical providers to see if they are still providing gender-affirming care, like Albany Med. In a statement, the communications team said, “We are continuing to monitor and assess the developing situation.”
Contrasting Views on Federal Funding
The following is part of a larger statement from Republican Albany County Legislator Paul Burgdorf: “Federal tax dollars should not be spent on gender reassignment surgery and sex change treatment for minors, period.”
Conclusion
The transgender community is facing significant challenges as a result of the executive orders. However, there is ongoing support from medical providers and legal action to protect their rights. It is essential to continue advocating for the rights of marginalized communities and ensuring that they have access to the care they need.
FAQs
Q: What services were restricted by the executive orders?
A: Gender-affirming medical care, including hormones and puberty blockers, was restricted for individuals under 19 who receive treatment funded through the federal government.
Q: What is the current legal status of the executive orders?
A: A temporary restraining order was issued in federal court to prevent a funding freeze for treatment, and a lawsuit was filed by Attorney General Letitia James and 22 other states in opposition to the executive order.
Q: Are medical providers still providing gender-affirming care?
A: Yes, medical providers like Albany Med are continuing to provide gender-affirming care, despite the restrictions imposed by the executive orders.
