Like many of you, I am heartbroken by the news that came out this morning—yet another attempt to target transgender and nonbinary youth by denying them access to life-affirming medical care.
I want to be clear: this is not a final decision. The rules announced by HHS are still proposed, and the legislation has not passed. There is time, and there is still a path forward. We encourage you to stay informed alongside our partners at One Colorado as next steps unfold.
This moment is deeply personal for me.
For much of my life, I carried the quiet, constant weight of knowing that the body I was born into didn’t feel like my own. I tried to push that feeling down, to make myself smaller, to endure. It wasn’t until I began my transition at 27 that everything finally made sense. This is who I am. This is who I have always been. And what an indescribable gift it has been to grow into a body that feels like home.
Everyone deserves that gift.
Transgender and nonbinary youth already face disproportionate rates of bullying, depression, and suicide. They deserve care. They deserve protection. They deserve the freedom to grow into themselves without fear, shame, or political interference.
If you are lucky enough to love a trans child—as a parent, sibling, family member, or friend—hold them a little closer today. Tell them, clearly and often, that they are seen, cherished, and valued. Their lives are not political talking points. They are sacred. And they are worth fighting for.
The Center is here for our trans youth, now and always. Our free youth programs will continue through December 23 and will resume on January 9.
We wish you a safe, affirming, and restful holiday season. When we return, our doors will be open—as they always are—to welcome you home.
If you need support in the meantime, please reach out to cbeyer@lgbtqcolorado.org