The directive intends to improve LGBTQ-inclusive learning environments in American schools by increasing access to gender affirming treatment.
On Wednesday, President Joe Biden issued an executive order aimed at defeating a record number of anti-LGBTQ measures presented in state legislatures throughout the country.
The directive will direct government health and education organizations to improve LGBTQ-inclusive learning environments in American schools and boost access to gender affirming care.
It will also cut federal support for the disproved practice of “conversion therapy,” which has been rejected by nearly every major American medical society, and ask the Federal Trade Commission to investigate whether the practice is unfair or deceptive.
The president’s directive comes as campaigners fight a record number of anti-LGBTQ measures submitted in states around the country this year – more than 320, according to the Human Rights Campaign.
At a White House signing ceremony on Wednesday, the president told a group of LGBTQ activists and Democratic politicians, “We’re in a struggle for the soul of the nation.” “And when I look around this room and see all of you here today, I know we’re going to win this battle.”
“To all the young folks, my message is simple: Just be yourself.” You are cherished. You’ve been heard. “You do have a place,” Biden remarked. “I want you to know that as your president, I have your back, as do all of us on this stage.”
According to the Human Rights Campaign, the majority of the bills signed into law in recent months — 24 in 13 states — aim to limit transgender youth’s access to gender affirming care, prohibit trans girls and women from competing on girls’ sports teams in school, and restrict the learning of Lgbt people in schools.
A coordination committee will be established under the executive order to lead efforts across federal departments to improve the collection of data on sexual orientation and gender identity.
It will also order the Department of Health and Human Services to increase resources to combat LGBTQ child suicide and homelessness, as well as research the difficulties that same-sex married couples encounter in obtaining government benefits.
Biden’s signature of the executive directive was praised by LGBTQ activists.
In a statement, Amit Paley, the chief executive officer and executive director of The Trevor Project, an LGBTQ youth suicide prevention group, said, “This historic executive order will promote long-sought, LGBTQ-inclusive policies and practices that will help save young LGBTQ lives.” “It’s past time to put an end to the deadly and discredited practice of conversion ‘therapy,’ and provide access to the affirming treatment LGBTQ youth require to survive and thrive.”
The new measures come after a recent uptick in heated debate about how and whether youngsters should be taught about LGBTQ issues.
Conservative lawmakers, TV pundits, and other public figures have accused opponents of a recently approved Florida education law, called the “Don’t Say Gay” bill by critics, of attempting to “groom” or “indoctrinate” children in recent months. The term “grooming” has long been used to label LGBTQ persons as child sex offenders, particularly homosexual men and transgender women. Advocates have urged public authorities to refrain from using the charged language, fearing that it could lead to violence against LGBTQ Americans.
Last weekend, white supremacist groups targeted at least three LGBTQ events, with police detaining 31 people at the annual Pride in the Park event in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, on suspicion of rioting conspiracy. The arrestees wore gas masks and shields to the event.
“Violent attacks on the community, including continuous attacks on transgender women of color,” Biden added, referring to the arrests over the weekend. “They’re repulsive, and they need to stop.”
The president has been encouraging Congress to enact the Equality Act, which would provide comprehensive LGBTQ rights legislation.
