A devoted mother addressed Texas lawmakers this week, urging them not to enact a bill that would classify the support of transgender children as a form of abuse. “Being a parent is the hardest job we will ever do, and our love for our kids doesn’t fade when they reach adulthood,” she emphasized. Amber Johnson, the mother of a transgender boy, shared her heartfelt story during a Senate hearing, asking legislators to reconsider the implications of the proposed law.
“Honestly, these bills are a significant waste of time and taxpayer money, but here we are,” Johnson remarked. She recalled a moment when her son, at just four years old, asked if scientists could help him become who he truly is. “Initially, I didn’t fully understand my child’s identity. I just knew he wasn’t like other girls his age and that he was in pain,” she said.
“I’m scared to be here today,” Johnson stated, addressing the Texas Senate Committee on State Affairs. “I’m concerned that my testimony could be used against me if S.B. 1646 or S.B. 1311 passes, and my beloved son is taken from me.” Senate Bill 1646 redefines child abuse, including parents or doctors who permit transgender minors to access hormone treatments or surgeries. Meanwhile, Senate Bill 1311 seeks to eliminate liability insurance for gender-affirming care for certain children.
Johnson shared that her now 13-year-old son is thriving in seventh grade, thanks in large part to the support and affirmation he receives from his family. “Denying him that support, or worse, removing him from our home because we sought to help him, would have catastrophic effects,” she warned.
“If this bill becomes law, that, senators, is child abuse,” Johnson asserted. “And I will hold each of you accountable every time a transgender child dies by suicide, reminding you that their lives could have been saved, but you chose otherwise.” Texas Republicans argue that gender-affirming healthcare should be prohibited for minors, a decision they believe should be made solely by parents and medical professionals. However, few senators attended to hear the opposition’s perspective.
“Like many of you, I thought my son was asking for surgery, and it scared me,” Johnson explained, emphasizing that gender-affirming surgeries are not performed on minors. She noted that there are various options for transgender youth, including reversible hormone blockers, which have been clinically proven to save lives.
Numerous parents, transgender youth, and advocates voiced their concerns during the committee hearing. You can view Johnson’s full testimony here.
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In summary, a Texas mother passionately urged lawmakers to reconsider bills that would criminalize parental support for transgender children. Her testimony highlighted the importance of acceptance and the devastating effects of taking away crucial support from these young individuals.
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