- United States
- Mich.
- Letter
New York City just showed every state leader exactly what it looks like to show up for LGBTQ+ constituents — and I want to see you follow that lead. Mayor Mamdani created the city's first Office of LGBTQIA+ Affairs, earmarked $15 million for gender-affirming health care, and is opening a city-run trans health clinic. That's not symbolism. That's governance. I need to know you're willing to match that energy at the state level.
The federal government is actively threatening providers, and major health systems are shutting down gender-affirming care programs for youth in response. Mount Sinai handed over sensitive trans patient records to federal authorities. These aren't abstract threats — they are happening right now to real people in our communities. Trans New Yorkers, especially young people, are being left without care and without protection.
This is the moment for state leadership to act. Fund gender-affirming care. Create dedicated offices and infrastructure for LGBTQ+ constituents. Push back against federal overreach that puts vulnerable people at risk. New York City has drawn a line. The state needs to stand behind it.