Press Statement  Massachusetts Commission on LGBTQ Youth statement on recent executive order

Boston, MA — The Massachusetts Commission on LGBTQ Youth was established to advocate for the rights and needs of LGBTQ youth in the Commonwealth. While significant progress has been made, we have always maintained that our work is not complete. It is evident that the advocacy provided by our Commission is more crucial now than ever before.

The recent executive orders from the White House were anticipated and pose a threat to the advancements we have achieved, particularly endangering transgender and gender-expansive youth and young adults.

Moreover, it is essential to recognize that the executive order specific to gender identity lacks even a basic level of scientific understanding. Sex and gender are not the same. Gender, as a social construct, was designed to be “socially coercive”. Historically, the freedoms in this country were largely reserved for cisgender, ostensibly heterosexual Caucasian men. Fortunately, in Massachusetts, we aim to embrace a broader interpretation of true freedom that transcends traditional social norms, particularly in a society deeply rooted in the enslavement of people, a well-documented legacy of oppression, and the incarceration of intellectual autonomy.

Rest assured that Massachusetts has implemented strong and protective legislation. This includes but is not limited to the Gender X bill, guidance on gender identity for public accommodations, and directives for public schools aimed at fostering a safe and supportive environment for all students. These efforts reflect our commitment to ensuring the safety and rights of LGBTQ youth and young adults.

As we move forward into the next four years, we recognize the importance of remaining vigilant in defending our hard-won protections. We are confident that our Governor, along with a diverse coalition of legislators, advocates, allies, and the broader community, will come together to ensure that the Commonwealth continues to be an inclusive sanctuary for all its residents.

Shaplaie Brooks, Executive Director, Massachusetts Commission on LGBTQ Youth

Related: Massachusetts law about gender identity or expression