Trans in the Cross Hairs

In June 2015, one month after Caitlyn Jenner graced the cover Vanity Fair magazine, the Family Research Council (FRC) published their infamous white paper on how to fight the war against “transgenderism.” This paper spelled out the strategies that Christians should use to fight the war against trans people. Eight years later we are seeing the brutal consequences of this strategy being played out in Republican controlled State Legislatures as they create laws that criminalize doctors and parents who support and care for trans persons; in particular, trans youth.

On the opposite side of the debate stands the American Medical Association (AMA). The AMA is clear about why trans health care is important and ethical and has released several statements and policies regarding transgender individuals. Here is a short list:

1. The AMA recognizes that transgender individuals experience unique health disparities and barriers to care, and supports efforts to address and eliminate these disparities.
2. The AMA supports policies and practices that ensure access to inclusive, competent, and respectful health care for transgender individuals.
3. The AMA supports the right of transgender individuals to self-identify their gender identity and gender expression.
4. The AMA supports the provision of hormone therapy and gender-affirming surgery as medically necessary treatment for transgender individuals.
5. The AMA supports the use of evidence-based guidelines for the care of transgender individuals, including the World Professional Association for Transgender Health's Standards of Care.
6. The AMA supports the inclusion of transgender-inclusive education for health care professionals.
7. The AMA opposes discrimination against transgender individuals in any form, including discrimination in employment, housing, and public accommodations.
8. The AMA supports efforts to protect the rights of transgender individuals, including the right to change legal documents to reflect their gender identity.
9. The AMA supports policies that allow transgender individuals to enlist in the military and serve openly.
10. The AMA supports efforts to reduce stigma and discrimination against transgender individuals, including through public education and awareness campaigns.

But in solidarity with the FRC, a few loud voices have stoked the fires of fear with misinformation. They include the likes of rapid-fire Ben Shapiro and Trans Exclusionary Radical Feminists (TERFS). These voices have driven parents to rally against trans-inclusive policies in schools and society at large. Here is a summary of their claims and tactics:

1. They often suggests that being trans is a choice, rather than a fundamental aspect of a person's identity.
2. They frequently misgenders trans individuals, using language and pronouns that do not align with their gender identity.
3. They often spread misinformation about trans healthcare, suggesting that it is unnecessary or harmful, when in fact it can be lifesaving for trans people.
4. They promote the harmful and unscientific idea that trans people suffer from a "mental disorder," rather than recognizing that gender dysphoria is a legitimate medical condition.
5. They suggest that trans people are a threat to cisgender (non-trans) people, particularly in bathrooms and other public spaces, despite there being no evidence to support this claim.
6. They frequently use derogatory and offensive language when discussing trans people and issues related to trans rights.
7. They promote the notion that trans people are trying to "erase" cisgender people or "force" others to accept their identity, rather than simply seeking recognition and acceptance for who they are.
8. They often conflate sexual orientation and gender identity, suggesting that being trans is a form of "perversion" or "deviance."
9. They suggest that trans people are a "trend" or "fad," rather than acknowledging the long history of trans individuals and communities.
10. They frequently use religion or tradition as a justification for denying trans people their rights and dignity, rather than recognizing that all people, including trans individuals, deserve respect and equality.

These views have been weaponized by Republicans across all levels of elected bodies, from school boards to state legislatures and Congress. They have used these fears to raise money and win votes. Here is a summary of what these laws are attempting to do:

1. Anti-trans laws often involve denying trans youth access to gender-affirming healthcare, such as hormone therapy and surgeries, which can have severe physical and mental health consequences for these individuals.
2. These laws also often involve forcing trans youth to use restrooms and other facilities that do not align with their gender identity, which can lead to harassment, discrimination, and violence.
3. Trans youth who are not supported in their gender identity may be at higher risk for depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts.
4. Anti-trans laws can also create a culture of fear and discrimination for trans youth, making it difficult for them to feel safe and accepted in their communities.
5. These laws often rely on misinformation and myths about trans individuals, rather than evidence-based understanding of gender identity.
6. Anti-trans laws can also limit trans youth's access to education, as they may face discrimination or be prevented from participating in activities or using facilities in ways that align with their gender identity.
7. Trans youth may also face difficulties in obtaining identification documents that accurately reflect their gender identity, which can have negative impacts on their ability to access healthcare, employment, and other essential services.
8. These laws often undermine the rights and autonomy of trans youth, and can prevent them from living authentic and fulfilling lives.
9. Anti-trans laws can also have negative impacts on the broader trans community, creating a climate of discrimination and stigma that affects all trans individuals.
10. It is important to support and affirm trans youth, rather than passing laws that discriminate against and endanger them.

Is it any wonder that members of the trans community, which could number over 1.5 million in the U.S. alone, are feeling as if they are caught in the cross-hairs of hate, bigotry, and discrimination?

In its white paper, the FRC admits that Christians lost the first two wars against feminism and gay rights, respectively; and that Christians need to win the next war against the evils of trans inclusion. Again, is it any wonder why the Southern Poverty Law Center has designated the FRC a hate group?

Please do not remain silent when you have the chance to stand against hate.