This century has brought with it a multitude of changes. One change that has taken center stage and continues to strongly influence how we perceive ourselves and each other as a species is one that has taken place in our perception of the term, “gender”.
Where there once was just male and female, the world is slowly but surely coming to the realization that gender cannot be truly and accurately defined in such black and white terms. The world is gradually coming to accept the fact that there is more to gender than just what reproductive anatomy an individual is born with.
The nation as a whole has come a long way from trying to use spirituality or psychology to “cure” individuals who don't subscribe to the conventional definitions of gender, and individuals plagued with gender dysphoria are no longer deemed outcasts as they once were. Can we really say however, that we have made progress when the notion of banning gender therapy for minors is even being contemplated?
In the same way no one is born a fully grown adult, no one is born fully transgender. We grow to become these things. How is a minor expected to grow into who they want to be if they are effectively denied access to what is arguably the most important tool they need to make that transition?
Undergoing gender therapy for a young adult can be a very big step. There are many things to consider, such as whether or not the minor will change their mind later, or even if the procedure is doing more harm than good to the individual. These are all valid concerns, however the very nature of gender therapies not only renders these reservations redundant, but also reveals that these procedures are actually necessary for the mental development of the minor. Setting aside the fact that these therapies themselves are indispensable, when it comes to helping young adults affirm their gender identity and feel more comfortable in their own skin, it serves another equally vital purpose.
According to Dr. Johanna Olson-Kennedy and her team, “Cultural sensitivity and awareness begins with front office staff, and other staff that are initial points of contact for parents and patients. Staff and provider inquiry about, as well as consistently use, appropriate pronouns and names is the first, and potentially most important step toward creating a culturally sensitive and welcoming environment. Professionals can model appropriate use of names and pronouns in the presence of parents and caregivers.”
The accepting and accommodating environment that gender therapy exposes these minors to is one that helps them be who not just who they are, but who they want to be as well. Banning these procedures is effectively the same as telling them it isn't okay to be who they are. It's tantamount to saying that they can be gender diverse, but only up to a point. This is a cruel fate no child needs to suffer.
The most pressing concern with these therapies is the physical changes they evoke in a minor. Yet, once the procedure is stopped, these changes disappear. The more permanent procedures such as phalloplasty and vaginoplasty are strictly reserved for when they have reached adulthood.
These minors need to know that it's okay to be who they are. They need to see that they are accepted completely for who they are. Denying them these therapies is synonymous with suppressing their gender identity. They need as much time and support as they can get with establishing their identity. Banning gender therapy is synonymous with sabotaging their goals.
Give young adults the opportunity to decide and follow their hearts. Let’s say no to the gender therapy ban in Alabama!
