Following US Supreme Court’s ruling on gender-affirming care, Illinois anticipated to draw more healthcare seekers say local advocates

CHICAGO (WLS) — The Supreme Court on Wednesday upheld Tennessee’s ban on gender-affirming care for minors.

The law bars gender transition surgery, puberty blockers and hormone therapy for people under 18.

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Local leaders in the LGBTQ community are raising concerns about the impact of the decision.

The Supreme Court’s decision marks a historic moment as it addresses an anti-transgender law for the first time. Opponents of the verdict argue that its effects will extend beyond just the transgender community.

“This isn’t merely targeting trans youth or LGBT individuals; it’s an affront to personal bodily autonomy,” expressed Manuel Hernandez, the executive director of the Association of Latinos Motivating Action.

This decision stands as one of the most pivotal in LGBTQ legal history, signifying that states have the authority to prohibit gender-affirming medical treatments for transgender minors. According to Hernandez, such treatments are critical and life-saving.

“It actually decrease suicide ideation and intense by 70% among trans youth when they are receiving gender-affirming care,” Hernandez said.

Now those working to support the transgender community are expecting a massive influx of those seeking this health care in Illinois.

“Whether you’re, you know, 18, or you’re 35 or you’re 55 right now, there’s a year waitlist just for a consultation, not even the surgery,” said Asher McMaher, Trans Upfront IL executive director.

For parents like McMaher who has a 13-year-old transgender daughter, the ruling hits closer to home.

“We’re seeing kids like my own, who are trying to stand up within their privilege for those kids who are not being able to get access,” McMaher said.

Those on the other side say the ruling was the best decision.

In a statement, Illinois Republican state Sen. Andrew Chesney said, “By upholding the Tennessee law, the high court rightfully recognizes that prescribing puberty blockers, cross-sex hormones, and performing disfiguring surgeries on minors is not healthcare. It’s woke ideology-driven malpractice.”

“We see hormones and blockers used for cis people more than we do trans people. Trans people are 1% of the population, right?” McMaher said. “We’re targeting children, and that’s not OK.”

Trans Upfront IL is planning a protest of the Supreme Court’s decision for this Saturday.