- United States
- N.M.
- Letter
Defend Funding for Gender-Affirming Healthcare for Transgender Americans
To: Sen. Luján, Sen. Heinrich
From: A verified voter in Albuquerque, NM
December 11
As a transgender constituent, this issue of protecting access to gender-affirming healthcare affects me personally. Republicans are threatening to ban federal funding for healthcare providers who offer gender-affirming treatments like hormones and surgeries for transgender individuals. This policy would essentially signal to the private sector that providing this vital care could mean losing access to federal dollars, potentially causing many hospitals and clinics to discontinue these services. Access to gender-affirming healthcare is crucial for the wellbeing of the transgender community and has been shown to significantly reduce rates of depression and suicidal ideation. This care is backed by leading medical associations as safe, effective, and often life-saving treatment. We must defend the right of all Americans to access necessary medical care free from discrimination based on gender identity. I urge you to stand firm against any legislation that would restrict or eliminate federal funding for gender-affirming healthcare. Protecting the health and dignity of transgender people should be a priority. Attempts to deny this vulnerable group access to vital services are unacceptable and will only breed further marginalization. Please do not let these harmful policies move forward.