AANE Statement in Support of LGBTQ+ Rights

Contact: Cathy Aikman, Director of Marketing and Communications
[email protected]
617-393-3824 ext. 230

Released: June 6, 2023

Legislation attacking the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals, especially aimed at the Transgender community, is on the rise in the United States. As of May 2023, according to Track Trans Legislation and the ACLU, 45 of the 50 states in the U.S. have proposed anti-Trans legislation in 2023. This trend is especially troubling to AANE because Transgender individuals are three to six times more likely to be Autistic. More recent Trans legislation has even started to weaponize autism by arguing that Autistic individuals are incapable of making informed decisions regarding gender-affirming care, which only adds another barrier to accessing this much needed, life saving care.

AANE stands in solidarity with the Autistic and LGBTQ+ communities in condemning these measures and believes the protection of their rights should be expanded. We continue to support Autistic LGBTQ+ individuals and their families with dedicated programming, one-on-one consultations, and groups for adults, teens, and parents. AANE will remain steadfast in our commitment to create and expand safe and affirming spaces for our community.

To learn more about the anti-Trans legislation being proposed or passed in various US states and what you can do about it, please visit the National Center for Transgender Equality

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