As I sit down to write this, my mind is filled with concern for those who are affected by gender dysphoria. It’s a real thing, folks – a serious issue that can have life-altering consequences if left untreated or ignored.
Kris Wells, Canada research chair for the Public Understanding of Sexual & Gender Minority Youth, has heard similar stories about the struggles faced by transgender youth in Alberta. According to him, the climate of fear and anxiety created since Premier Danielle Smith’s discriminatory policy announcements were released makes it even more difficult for young people to access gender-affirmative care.
The problem is that many school districts across the province have banned displays of Pride flags or safe space posters in schools – a move that sends a clear message: transgender youth are not welcome here. And yet, these policies haven’t even been passed into legislation yet! It’s like some individuals are taking matters into their own hands before we’ve had any laws to govern this behavior.
But it gets worse. The West Block reported that the province is developing a private registry of medical professionals who specialize in providing health care for transgender people – and I’m not sure what kind of “care” they’re planning, but I don’t think it’s going to be good news for those affected by gender dysphoria.
And then there are the counseling pilot projects designed to help transgender youth and their families work through often difficult and complex issues. Sounds like a nice idea on paper, but when you consider that many LGBTQ2 agencies in Red Deer weren’t even consulted before these policies were announced – well, it’s hard not to feel frustrated.
What I find most disturbing is the lack of consultation with grassroots organizations who are working tirelessly to support transgender youth. These programs are overwhelmed with requests for information or young people wanting access to care before the legislation changes so they can get the help they need now.
I urge health-care providers: please continue doing your jobs as professionals! There’s nothing in place restricting you from providing gender-affirmative care and access to hormones and treatment when medically necessary. Remember that gender identity is real, and not providing access to this care is a violation of human rights.
It’s time for us all – policymakers, healthcare providers, community leaders – to come together and create policies that support the well-being of transgender youth. We can’t let fear-mongering or misinformation dictate our actions when it comes to gender identity.