Protesters rally outside Lurie Children’s Hospital over halt in gender-affirming surgeries

CHICAGO – Hundreds of people protested outside Lurie Children’s Hospital on Saturday over the hospital’s decision to pause gender-affirming surgeries for patients under the age of 19.

“Legislators have no business to be stepping into medical decision,” demonstrator Sarah Organ said.

Lurie Children’s Hospital said it will continue to provide some services for transgender youth.

“We can receive gender-affirming hormones and puberty blockers, but if they’re willing to take away top surgery, which is such a pivotal part of people’s transition lives, then what’s next?” demonstrator Sky questioned.

The decision to pause gender-affirming surgeries came shortly after President Trump signed an executive order stopping federal support for gender transitions.

A federal judge temporarily blocked Trump’s executive order on Thursday. Demonstrators said the move can cause serious harm to transgender people.

“As we know, many trans youth who can’t get access to healthcare commit suicide unfortunately,” demonstrator LJ Hickman said.

Transgender advocates were also present at the rally and spoke with WGN News.

“I know this because I’m the product of a transition before the age of 19 years old. I was supported. I had access to care and because of that, I’m standing here today whole, healthy, thriving,” CEO of Brave Space Alliance Channyn Lynne Parker said.

Parents with children who are patients at the hospital also spoke.

“They’re choosing to live their true selves because not doing so hurts them more than anything the bullies can do,” one parent said.

Many in the crowd feared the changes Lurie Children’s Hospital made are just the beginning.

“Lurie’s is a leader in this space, so if they backed down, other smaller companies and smaller organizations will follow,” demonstrator Jessica Brand-Reid said.

The hospital sent WGN News the following statement on the changes:

“Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago is committed to serving the needs of every child and family, especially those seeking the expertise of our pediatric specialty providers. Our hospital’s top priority has always been the physical and mental health, safety, and well-being of our patients, their families, and our team members. Our team members’ incredible dedication to providing compassionate, inclusive, evidenced-based care remains unmatched.   

“Lurie Children’s began a review of the January 28^th Executive Order addressing gender care to assess any potential impact on our medical center and the clinical gender care we offer to our patients and their families. As part of our comprehensive review of the Executive Order, we have made the difficult decision to pause gender care surgeries within the gender care program for all patients under the age of 19 as we work to understand the rapidly evolving environment. At this time, we are continuing to provide other care and treatment plans for the program’s patients, as we monitor further developments on this issue.”