Lawmakers and advocates gathered outside NYU Langone’s Tisch Hospital in Manhattan on Feb. 6 to voice their concerns over the recent restrictions on gender-affirming care services for youth. The issue arose following the Trump administration’s executive order targeting gender-affirming care, leading to at least three providers, including NYU Langone, reportedly canceling appointments.
During the press conference, Assemblymember Harvey Epstein emphasized the need for immediate action and put NYU on notice to reconsider their stance on the matter. Elected officials like State Senators Brad Hoylman-Sigal and Jabari Brisport, Assemblymembers Deborah Glick and Tony Simone, and Councilmember Erik Bottcher, among others, joined the rally to support the cause.
The fallout from President Trump’s executive order prompted several New York City hospitals to restrict gender-affirming care services for youth, causing concern among advocates and lawmakers. While some hospitals canceled appointments, others like New York City Health + Hospitals continued to provide care as usual, ensuring that essential services remained accessible.
State Attorney General Letitia James intervened, urging providers to uphold their legal obligations and warning against any form of discrimination based on gender identity. Despite these efforts, NYU Langone and other hospitals stood firm in their decision to limit gender-affirming care, prompting further action from lawmakers to address the issue.
Advocates Speak Out
Lawmakers highlighted the significance of existing laws and protections, such as the Equal Rights Amendment and the Trans Safe Haven law, in defending the rights of individuals seeking gender-affirming care. They emphasized the need for hospitals to comply with these laws and provide inclusive healthcare services without discrimination.
State Senator Kristen Gonzalez expressed disappointment over hospitals’ reluctance to engage in discussions on the matter, citing legal concerns as a barrier to meaningful dialogue. The LGBTQIA+ Caucus sought to engage with hospitals to address the issue, but faced challenges in securing their participation, raising questions about the commitment to upholding healthcare rights.
Personal Stories and Calls to Action
Amid the political debate, personal stories added a human touch to the advocacy efforts. Maeve Anderson, a trans college student and NYU Langone patient, shared her disappointment in the hospital’s response to the executive order, urging accountability and transparency in healthcare decisions. Bryan Ellicott-Cook from SAGE highlighted the broader implications of the restrictions, emphasizing the need for solidarity across generations in defending LGBTQ rights.
Overall, the call to action resonated with advocates, urging NYU Langone and other hospitals to reconsider their stance on gender-affirming care. As the debate continues, the spotlight remains on ensuring equal access to healthcare services for all individuals, regardless of gender identity. Stay tuned for updates on this evolving story as advocates and lawmakers push for inclusive and non-discriminatory healthcare practices.
