March 14, 2022

The Center’s Statement

The rising wave of anti-LGBTQ+ and anti-trans attacks across the country—overwhelmingly targeting families and their children—is disturbing and damaging. The sheer volume of state policies steeped in hostility toward our community fuels homophobia and transphobia, and makes this moment particularly alarming.

Loving and affirming young people for who they are is not abuse. Awareness about the complexities of sexuality, acknowledging that families come in all forms, and educating young people about gender identity is not dangerous. These recent actions from State Houses comprise more than 200 bills nationwide.

We’re glad that Judge Meachum has issued a temporary injunction against Texas’ anti-trans policy, acknowledging that the governor’s order is a violation of the State Constitution. If policies like this one and the “Don’t Say Gay” bill in Florida ultimately stand up to judicial scrutiny, their only outcome will be to harm LGBTQ+ youth, who already face bullying and discrimination in schools, public spaces, and healthcare. Those who hold multiple commonly excluded identities, such as Black and Indigenous people, Asian Americans, and Latine people and undocumented LGBTQ+ youth, will be at particular risk. These communities report higher rates of harassment and a lack of safety in schools, and are disproportionately targeted by the criminal justice system.

This is a painful, scary moment for many of us, but it also reminds us why we do the work that we do at The Center, including providing mental health support, youth programming, and statewide advocacy—all of which are critical to ensuring that New York can be a place that celebrates and affirms everyone in our community.

If you are a young LGBTQ+ person looking for a listening ear, a welcoming space, or solidarity with your peers, The Center is here for you. Email youth@gaycenter.org to learn more.

Want to fight back? Take action in New York with The Center, and support LGBTQ+ organizers in Florida and Texas.