CA to Introduce Bill Protecting Trans Youth & Parents Facing Persecution, Other States Should Follow

March 18. 2022

For Immediate Release
Mar 18, 2022

Media Contact
Nazirah Ahmad
[email protected]

Statement from Noreen Farrell, Executive Director of Equal Rights Advocates:

We are encouraged to see California State Sen. Scott Wiener will be introducing a bill that would grant refuge to trans youth and their families fleeing persecution in states with anti-trans policies and laws.

We hope other states follow California’s lead and provide a sanctuary for trans children wishing to express their true selves, and prevent the unfair punishment of supportive parents and caregivers. We look forward to more lawmakers stepping up and distancing their states from the hateful and discriminatory criminalization of trans children in a handful of states across the country. 

For example, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott’s recent directive to state health agencies and the general public to investigate gender-affirming healthcare for trans youth as child abuse, and report the parents of minors appearing to receive gender-affirming medical care, is a draconian attempt to weaponize the law against families with transgender and nonbinary children. 

“As a nation, we decided long ago that gender discrimination is wrong—and that must include transgender kids.”

Should directives like this gain traction, it would further endanger transgender youth who already face unacceptable instances of hate and discrimination. What’s more, those hit hardest would be trans children of color, who are most vulnerable to extra and unnecessary contact with the foster system.

As a nation, we decided long ago that gender discrimination is wrong—and that must include transgender kids. Equal Rights Advocates stands in solidarity with families and providers who have worked tirelessly to care for and support our children, and for lawmakers who stand beside them. 

To request an interview with Noreen Farrell, please contact Paulina Campos at [email protected] or 650-455-9928.