1. United States
2. Minn.
3. Letter

I am writing to express my strong opposition to the recent executive orders issued by President Donald Trump that bar access to gender-affirming care for transgender youth and threaten the careers of transgender military personnel. These actions are deeply harmful and undermine the fundamental rights of transgender individuals to access life-saving healthcare and serve their country with dignity. Gender-affirming care is essential healthcare. It is supported by decades of medical research and endorsed by leading health organizations, including the American Medical Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics. For transgender youth, access to this care can be lifesaving, significantly reducing rates of depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation. Decisions about healthcare should be made by patients, their doctors, and, in the case of minors, their caregivers—not by political interference. Furthermore, the targeting of transgender military personnel is unjust and discriminatory. Transgender individuals have served and continue to serve our country with honor and bravery. Denying them the right to serve openly and access necessary healthcare is a disservice to their sacrifices and undermines the strength and inclusivity of our armed forces. I urge you to take a stand against these harmful policies and advocate for the rights of transgender individuals to access the care they need and to serve their country without fear of discrimination. Please support legislation that protects and affirms the rights of transgender people, ensuring that everyone can live with dignity and respect. Thank you for your attention to this critical issue. I look forward to your response and hope to see your leadership in defending the rights of all Americans.