The Biden administration has faced backlash over recent statements opposing sex change surgeries for minors, leading to an about-face in policy and a reaffirmation of support for overturning bans on gender-affirming surgeries for transgender children. The initial White House statement appeared to be a reversal of the administration’s previous unwavering endorsement of child sex changes. However, following pressure from transgender activists and concerns raised by various stakeholders, the Biden administration has clarified its stance on the matter.
In early July, a spokesperson for the White House told The 19th News that these surgeries should be limited to adults, sparking confusion among the transgender community and their families about the administration’s position. Rodrigo Heng-Lehtinen, executive director of Advocates for Trans Equality, expressed his concern over the contradictory statements and the potential negative impact on the transgender community.
In response to the pressure campaign launched by activists, the White House sent an email to concerned parties, reaffirming its commitment to supporting child sex changes. Neera Tanden, a domestic policy adviser to President Biden, penned the administration’s updated current policy, emphasizing that while it believes “gender-affirming surgeries” should be reserved for adults, they do not support political bans on these procedures for minors.
Tanden’s email, allegedly obtained by the Guardian, reiterated the administration’s commitment to fighting state and national bans on gender-affirming care and respecting the role of parents, families, and doctors in making medical decisions for their children. The Biden administration maintains that it opposes attempts to limit healthcare access for transgender individuals through legislation or court rulings.
In summary, the Biden administration has reaffirmed its support for overturning bans on gender-affirming surgeries for transgender minors, after facing backlash and confusion following a recent statement that appeared to be contrary to their previous stance. The White House has clarified its position, emphasizing that it does not believe politicians should be able to dictate healthcare decisions for families with transgender children, but rather respect the role of parents, families, and doctors in making those choices.