A message from National Association of Social Workers (NASW) President Mildred “Mit” Joyner
NASW President Mildred “Mit” Joyner, DPS, MSW, LCSW
“NASW condemns Texas Gov. Greg Abbott’s direction of the Department of Family and Protective Services to implement Attorney General Ken Paxton’s opinion and to actually treat age-appropriate medically necessary gender affirming treatment as child abuse.
The Texas attempt to change the definition of child abuse are in direct opposition of social work values, principles, and our code of ethics. And most importantly, they pose danger to transgender youth and their families. Gov. Abbott’s directive is discriminatory, unjust and directly targets transgender and gender expansive youth. NASW wants Texas leadership to understand that social workers across this nation support transgender youth, their families and their support systems. Gender affirming care must be viewed for what it is – life-saving and life-affirming health and mental health care.
Gov. Abbott ‘s directive sends an alarming message to kids and families across thee country that will further exacerbate transphobic discrimination, stereotyping and bullying already experienced by trans youth and children. NASW is against the directive and will take all necessary steps to oppose any implementation or enforcement of these unjust rules.
To the transgender and gender expansive youth, children and adults that are struggling and hurting in this moment. Please know we hear you, we see you and we support you. NASW stands in solidarity with you and will continue and uplift transgender rights as human rights.”
