Statement on SCOTUS Decision on Gender-Affirming Care
Statement from Cameron Bartosiewicz, President of the Youth Pride Association
"I'm sure you’ve seen the news.
Two years ago, I came to you after the Roe V. Wade decision and Justice Clarence Thomas’s call to repeal all LGBTQ rights, warning of what was to come. In no uncertain terms, our rights were under attack.
I come to you today to tell you the worst has come to fruition. The fears of countless LGBTQ youth have been realized, and I say again, in no uncertain terms, if we fail to act, LGBTQ people will face hardship not seen in decades.
Today, the supreme court has substantially set back for LGBTQ rights. In a 6-3 decision, the court has ruled discrimination against transgender youth to be constitutional, and gender-affirming care bans to be allowed to go into effect immediately in 27 states. By refusing to exercise their power for judicial review, the supreme court has set the stage to strip all equal protections under the law simply on the basis of political discourse. The supreme court has abandoned their duties and have invited the criminalization of our identities.
The science is clear. Gender-affirming healthcare is safe, effective, and saves lives. The supreme court has in effect signed the death certificate of countless transgender youth. Regardless of what politicians say, LGBTQ youth matter and deserve the same protections afforded to everyone. We will always advocate for LGBTQ youth. We will always provide LGBTQ youth with the support they need.
I told you our rights were never a certainty, that equality is a constant fight. Now is the time to fight, before it is too late. Now more than ever, we need your support. Join us in our fight against the inequities and injustices facing LGBTQ students."
About Youth Pride Association
The Youth Pride Association (YPA) is a national nonprofit organization working to promote and foster the acceptance of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer (LGBTQ) people in educational institutions. YPA works to address the adversities LGBTQ youth face in schools through education, support, and advocacy.
Youth Pride Association's President, Cameron Bartosiewicz, is available for interviews.
(949) 755-7694
###