Diana George

As a parent of a transgender adult, I am writing in opposition to HB 1376. My child came out as transgender at the age of 15 and he is now 24 years old. There are numerous studies and statistics which show the emotional and psychological harm done to a transgender child who is not supported and accepted by parents and family. For example, here is a report from the American Psychological Association: http://www.apa.org/topics/lgbtq/mental-health-anti-transgender-legislation. This report discusses the devastating effects of denying transgender children the autonomy to express themselves as they experience themselves in the world. When my child initially told my husband and I that he is transgender we sought advice and direction from my child's pediatrician, psychologists, psychiatrists, and therapist. After meeting with my child, husband, and I, all of these healthcare professionals advised the best way we could help our child was to support him and follow his lead. My husband and I did just that and have never regretted doing so. As mentioned above, my child came out as transgender at age 15 and is now almost 25 years old. He has been living as a transgender person for almost 10 years. He is transgender and always will be. To pass HB 1376 out of committee will be cruel and detrimental to transgender children who already face constant insurmountable scrutiny and misunderstanding from some members of the public and the government. Please do not pass this grievous bill out of committee.