A troubling trend fueled by the Biden-Harris regime’s focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion was exposed recently — a staggering 13,394 gender reassignment procedures have been performed on minors in the U.S. from 2019 to 2023. This alarming statistic, highlighted by the nonprofit Do No Harm, indicates that hospitals across the nation have billed nearly $120 million for these surgeries, sparking fierce debate about the implications for vulnerable youth.
Michelle Havrilla, Director of Programs at Do No Harm, expressed deep concern over these practices, stating, “Body modification surgeries such as so-called vaginoplasties and phalloplasties are irreversible. The majority of these patients will end up with life-long complications related to these procedures.”
Such statements echo a growing sentiment among conservative circles and concerned parents who prioritize caution and the well-being of minors over radical medical interventions.
The data reveals that a significant proportion of these procedures occurred in states with liberal policies toward gender reassignment, such as California, New York, Washington, and Ohio. California alone recorded the highest number of procedures—2,083—amounting to an astonishing $28.9 million in medical charges. Critics argue that these states facilitate a culture that prioritizes the ideological goals of DEI over the health of children.
Dr. Stanley Goldfarb, Chairman of Do No Harm, emphasized the widespread nature of these procedures, stating, “This database should dispel myths that these procedures are a rare event or localized to a few places.” The sheer volume of surgeries performed underscores a systemic issue within the healthcare framework that many conservatives believe needs urgent reform.
In addition to concerns about physical health, critics of these procedures point to the psychological implications for children. Havrilla noted, “’Gender-affirming care’ is based on the dangerous premise that any child who has distress that he or she thinks is related to their sex should automatically be treated with the social transition to the sex of their choice.” This perspective highlights the need for a more nuanced approach to mental health issues that underlie gender dysphoria.
As the political climate grows more contentious, the Georgia state election board’s recent vote to subpoena records from Fulton County illustrates the broader implications of these policies. Supporters of election integrity assert that such actions are crucial for upholding democracy. Yet, as states grapple with their approaches to healthcare for minors, the debate about gender reassignment procedures takes center stage.
The data collected by Do No Harm indicates that 2022 marked the highest year for procedures across most states, with alarming increases in surgeries performed on minors. “We have seen a concerning rise in these surgeries,” Havrilla remarked, calling for more significant oversight and regulatory frameworks to protect children from potentially harmful medical practices.
With hospitals profiting from these interventions, some fear that financial incentives may overshadow the ethical responsibilities of healthcare providers. A report noted that New York billed $19 million for procedures, while Massachusetts medical centers raked in $10 million. This reality raises questions about the motivations driving these medical decisions.
Amidst this contentious backdrop, many states have enacted laws restricting or outright banning these procedures for minors. However, Do No Harm’s data suggests that the issue persists, as some states continue to have high numbers of gender reassignment surgeries despite recent legislative changes.
Advocates for more conservative healthcare policies argue that further reforms are necessary to protect minors from irreversible medical procedures. “We need to prioritize the mental and physical health of children over ideological pursuits,” remarked a spokesperson from a conservative advocacy group.
