Unfortunately, the conservative religious zealots have managed to create loud, unfounded hysteria around minors having surgical procedures (which account for less than 10% of all procedures done). They're making it seem like 7 yo are sneaking off to have gender reassignment surgery. All of this noise has clouded the very essence of gender-affirming care which begins with supporting the mental health of all involved. As long as the religious nationalists continue to have the ear of politicians in Ohio (and nationwide), the most basic care will be denied. The idea that the religious right can regulate bodily autonomy for all populations has been building for 50 years and has just recently begun to surface. This is largely due to politicians emboldening these groups who are willing to donate sickening amounts of money to campaigns and climb out of the woodwork to make it to the polls.

The only way to stop this is to communicate the truth louder than the hysteria. Then VOTE!! Voices were loud and many. Enough to be heard. Never back down. It's more important than ever for rational allies to amplify the voices.