In Video: Families say they're leaving the U.S. over its anti-trans climate

Fleeing the Fears: Transgender Families Abandon the US in Wake of Anti-Trans Climate

In the aftermath of Donald Trump’s inauguration, Brandon and Candace received devastating news for their 9-year-old transgender daughter Chase. Just 13 days into Trump’s presidency, the medical team at Colorado’s Children’s Hospital informed them that it could no longer provide Chase with transition-related medical care. The reasoning was rooted in a Trump executive order that halted research and education grants from going to hospitals that provide such care to minors under 19 years old.

Despite a subsequent federal judge ruling blocking the order, Brandon expressed his continued unease: "The relief was temporary. We still don’t know what will happen to Chase’s care tomorrow or next week." The Supreme Court is set to rule on a lawsuit against Tennessee’s ban on transition-related care for minors this month, potentially impacting access to trans healthcare nationwide.

For many families like the Brandons, the fear of Trump’s policies becoming more draconian is overwhelming. Some parents believe that if the Tennessee law stands, Trump may declare all transition-related care for minors child abuse and direct the attorney general to investigate parents who advocate for their transgender children. This prospect has prompted the Brandons to make the difficult decision to relocate to New Zealand, a country known for its LGBTQ-friendly laws.

The move will come at a significant cost, estimated to be up to $80,000. However, the Brandons are willing to sacrifice their comfort and financial stability for the peace of mind that comes with knowing Chase will receive the medical care she needs. This decision is not unique; more families are opting to leave the US in an effort to safeguard their children’s well-being.

A Growing Exodus

While a lawyer emphasized that fleeing the US over LGBTQ rights is not yet a widespread trend, the impact of Trump’s second-term policies is undeniable. The administration’s LGBTQ policies have become more aggressive, leaving many families feeling forced to make a difficult choice.

A rising number of families are considering relocation to countries with more accepting laws and cultures. This is a stark departure from the pre-2016 era, when the US was a relatively safe haven for LGBTQ individuals and families. The shift towards an anti-LGBTQ climate has created a sense of uncertainty and fear, leading some to abandon the country they love.

The Human Cost

The decision to leave behind everything familiar is a daunting one, especially for families who cannot afford to uproot their lives. The emotional toll of leaving loved ones, friends, and communities behind can be overwhelming. The Brandons’ story is a sobering reminder that for some families, the United States is no longer a place where they can thrive.

As the country’s LGBTQ climate continues to deteriorate, it is crucial that policymakers recognize the human cost of their actions. The mental and emotional well-being of transgender children and their families should be a top priority. Until then, families like the Brandons will continue to seek a safer haven, leaving behind a country that once promised to be a beacon of hope and acceptance.

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