FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 9, 2022
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Today Tennessee politicians introduced legislation that would prohibit doctors and families from making necessary life-saving healthcare decisions to support transgender youth.
Multiple studies have shown that providing gender-affirming and supportive care saves young people’s lives by dramatically reducing depression and suicidal ideation.
The following can be attributed to Henry Seaton, ACLU of Tennessee transgender justice advocate:
“Denying healthcare to transgender youth can be life-threatening. Research shows it contributes to depression, isolation, eating disorders, self-harm and suicide. However, transgender youth whose families support their gender identity have a significant decrease in suicidal thoughts and attempts, and significant increases in self-esteem.
Everyone should have access to the healthcare they need to survive and thrive. This legislation takes away the ability of families and medical professionals to provide life-saving care for transgender youth. Trans young people deserve love, respect and dignity, and the ACLU of Tennessee is deeply committed to protecting trans young people from physical and emotional harm. We will be bringing the full force of our organization to bear in fighting this legislation.”
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