Harmonic Speech Statement on TX Gov Abbott Attempt to Label Treatment as Child Abuse
Updated: Nov 28, 2022
All of us at Harmonic Speech are strongly opposed to the politicization of essential medical care. Gov. Greg Abbott and the State of Texas' intention to identify gender affirming care for trans and gender diverse youth as "child abuse", and to investigate these cases through the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services, risks vulnerable children losing access to lifesaving medical care. Ample evidence supports gender affirming interventions, including social transition, change of name and pronouns, and the use of medical interventions for trans and gender diverse youth who have been properly assessed for, and diagnosed with gender dysphoria. Furthermore, evidence shows that trans and gender diverse youth have improved mental health outcomes when they have the support of their family. Data indicate that 82% of transgender individuals have considered killing themselves and 40% have attempted suicide, with suicidality highest among transgender youth. This risk is significantly lowered when there is family and community support, including access to essential medical care. Additional evidence shows that these youth experience discrimination and harm when they enter the foster system. Identifying these treatments and interventions as "child abuse" is not based on evidence and will only bring about harm and disruption to these children and their families. We strongly denounce this profound lack of compassion for and interference with trans youth's access to essential medical care.
-Tallulah Breslin, MS, CCC/SLP (she/they)
Gender & Identity Affirming Voice Training @Harmonic Speech Therapy
