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February 10, 2025
Phoenix, Arizona – We are devastated to learn Phoenix Children's Hospital has decided to indefinitely pause gender-affirming care for minors, following President Trump's illegal and discriminatory executive order. This decision reflects intentional efforts by the new administration to harm transgender people, whether at home, school, or work. This trend of harmful policies not only threatens the well-being of transgender youth, but also infringes upon their right to receive medically necessary care.
Gender-affirming care has been shown to significantly improve the mental, emotional, and physical health of transgender youth. To remove access to this care in Arizona is a direct attack on the trans community and the families who have fought tirelessly for their children’s well-being. For many of us, this decision feels like a betrayal, but we will not back down.
Our organizations stand in solidarity with all transgender youth and their families who are affected by this policy change. We will continue to advocate for the rights of transgender individuals, ensuring they have access to the affirming healthcare they need, regardless of political agendas or executive orders.
To every trans youth who feels scared or uncertain today, know this: you are seen, you are loved, and you are worthy of care and dignity. We will fight for your rights, and we will not rest until you have access to the care you need to live your most authentic life.
We call on Arizona’s leaders, lawmakers, and healthcare professionals to stand with us in defending the rights of trans youth, and to ensure that gender-affirming care remains accessible to all who need it.
Signed,
Tami Staas, Executive Director
Arizona Trans Youth and Parent Organization
Carol Tappenden, Executive Director
Education Action Alliance (formerly GLSEN Arizona)
Brandie Reiner, MSW
Executive Director, NASW Arizona
Dustin Griswold, Clinic Director
Family Planning Associates Medical Group
Jeanne Casteen, Executive Director
Secular AZ
Civia Tamarkin, President & CEO
National Council of Jewish Women Arizona
Nate Rhoton, CEO
one·n·ten
Jodi R. Liggett
Arizona Center for Women’s Advancement
Grace Chenal, LCSW, Owner
SIGA Therapy, PLLC
Darrell Hill, Policy Director
ACLU of Arizona
Dr. Maria Ingalla, DNP, PMHNP-BC
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner/Owner
Paperflower Psychiatry, LLC
Athena Salman, Director of Arizona Campaigns
Reproductive Freedom for All Arizona
Lynn Davis, Director
Rabbi Joseph H. Gumbiner Community Action Project
Lori Shepherd
Tucson Jewish Museum & Holocaust Center
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